Former NAFD president John Adams recently travelled to Vietnam to speak at the Australian Funeral Directors Association’s National Convention, where he joined international colleagues to discuss leadership, regulation and the evolving role of funeral professionals.

“At the end of March, I had the privilege of travelling to Vietnam to present at the Australian Funeral Directors Association’s National Convention. I gave two keynote presentations: Breaking the Silence and Leadership Through Change exploring how expectations of our profession are changing and how leadership must adapt. I also joined a panel discussion on regulation, alongside NAFD executive member, Adam Ginder. Together, we discussed how different countries are approaching professional standards, public protection and ethics in the sector.
While customs differ by country, the core issues are strikingly similar — making international collaboration increasingly important.”

What struck me most was that the convention highlighted a shared commitment to excellence — and to expanding the profession’s role beyond traditional boundaries. Australian colleagues expressed strong interest in introducing bereavement awareness in schools — echoing efforts we continue to support here in the UK.

“I also met Dale Gilson, CEO of the AFDA, and incoming president Asha Dooley. Both support greater education around death, dying and loss — especially for young people.”

This visit marked more than just a speaking opportunity — it signalled the emergence of a global movement, one that is unafraid to break the silence, challenge taboos and advocate for more compassionate and grief-literate societies.

“As funeral professionals, our reach doesn’t end at the graveside. We are educators, advocates, and changemakers. And when we come together across borders, our ability to shape the future only grows stronger.”