Stacey Brewer’s path into the technology sector was far from straightforward. Originally from Johannesburg, she completed a Bachelor of Science degree at Rhodes University before embarking on international travels, where she worked closely with affluent clients. Her passion for engaging with diverse cultures and exploring new environments fueled this phase of her life. Upon returning to South Africa, she contributed to the FIFA World Cup operations and subsequently pursued an MBA with the goal of securing employment abroad.
While studying at Gibs Business School, Brewer was repeatedly confronted with the stark realities of South Africa’s education system, as emphasized by her professors. Despite significant government expenditure on education, the country consistently ranked near the bottom in global competitiveness indices. A particularly alarming statistic from the 2016 Progress in International Reading Literacy Study revealed that 80% of fourth graders were unable to read with comprehension. Motivated by these findings, Brewer’s thesis centered on developing a financially sustainable model for affordable private schools.
Igniting the Vision
Her investigation introduced her to Rocketship Education in the United States, an innovator in blended learning that leverages technology to reduce costs and generate detailed student performance data. Brewer admired Rocketship’s ability to scale efficiently and compete with wealthier institutions while serving communities where English was a second language. This experience convinced her that technology was not merely supplementary but essential in delivering accessible, high-quality education.
Inspired to replicate this success in South Africa, Brewer partnered with a co-founder to establish SPARK Schools. To support the launch, two Rocketship Education staff members, Bailey Thompson and Caitlin Burkholder, relocated from the U.S. to assist. Their initial angel investor provided funding without equity, encouraging them simply to “figure it out.” Additional investments from friends, family, and other affluent backers enabled the opening of their first campus in 2013, enrolling 160 students and employing 20 staff members.
Innovative Blended Learning Approach
In education, the largest expenses typically stem from staff salaries and facility maintenance. SPARK Schools addresses these challenges through a rotational system that optimizes the use of classrooms and teaching hours. Students from Grade R through Grade 12 alternate between in-person lessons and online sessions in computer labs. This operational strategy significantly reduces costs, allowing SPARK to maintain affordability for underserved communities. Unlike competitors such as Valenture Institute and Enko Education, which collaborate with existing schools, SPARK operates as an independent institution.
A Blend of Triumphs and Challenges
Currently, SPARK Schools educates over 17,000 students across 26 campuses and employs nearly 1,500 staff members, making it the largest employer among its peers. Notably, 64% of its workforce comprises young people, a point of pride for Brewer given South Africa’s high youth unemployment rates. The model’s effectiveness is evident, with some students advancing two academic years within a single year. The integration of technology fosters a data-driven environment that supports personalized learning, helping to close achievement gaps for students who start several grades behind.
Despite these accomplishments, Brewer acknowledges that her entrepreneurial journey has been filled with both successes and setbacks. She admits to moments of doubt, questioning whether she should have chosen a more conventional career path.
The most difficult period came during the COVID-19 pandemic, which Brewer describes as “extremely challenging.” Many families lacked access to the necessary tools for remote learning and struggled to meet tuition payments. Nevertheless, her steadfast dedication to her students and staff, combined with strong support from family and mentors, has fortified her resilience.
Looking Ahead
As a woman in the technology sector, Brewer recognizes the challenges but does not view them as limitations. She believes leadership demands effort regardless of gender and feels confident that she has earned her position without needing to constantly defend her role.
Brewer envisions SPARK Schools expanding beyond South Africa to become a leading educational innovator across Africa. She aims to amplify the continent’s voice on the global stage in education technology. With Earl Sampson’s appointment as CEO in April 2025, Brewer has transitioned to a governance role as Chair and Strategic Advisor. Her focus now lies in product innovation, continental growth, and exploring new business models to strengthen the organization’s capacity to serve more families, ultimately narrowing the literacy gap between Africa and the rest of the world.
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