About Us

MasterStart is a collaborative online platform for executives and business professionals that partners with top academic institutions like UCT GSB, Coventry University, Wits Business School, Richfield, and GIBS Online.

Our courses cover a wide range of topics, such as business, leadership, finance, marketing, and more. They focus on how to use what you’ve learned in real life, so learners can put what they’ve learned to use right away.

We believe in the power of education to transform lives, which is why we are committed to providing quality and accessible learning opportunities. Whether you are looking to enhance your personal development or upskill your team, we offer a diverse range of courses to meet your needs.

At MasterStart, we are passionate about empowering individuals and businesses with the tools to achieve their full potential. Join us on a journey of lifelong learning and personal growth.

OUR TEAM

MasterStart has assembled an executive team of education and tech veterans with a passion for cultivating innovation and growth.

Ben is an industry leader in the skills and education space. Ben was an Executive Director at QA which sold to CVC Capital Partners for £700 million.

Ben PikeCEO

Formerly an attorney of the High Court of South Africa, Faryn pivoted into corporate strategy before becoming our Chief Commercial Officer.

Faryn DavidsonCCO

Jody is a pioneer with extensive experience in successfully launching start-ups. Prior to MasterStart, Jody worked in acquisitions at Naspers.

Jody BassonCo-Founder

Alison spent a decade in the online gaming industry before joining MasterStart. She specialises in optimising systems, people and creating a market-leading learner experience for MasterStart.

Alison SmithCXO

An expert in Learning & Development, Alexia has authored over 50 short learning courses in her previous roles as consultant, Dean of Teaching & Learning, as well as Executive Dean of Strategy & Innovation.

Dr. Alexia CoxCLO

Nic formerly carved out a niche for himself as a core developer at Superbalist.com. His primary focus is on building web applications, implementing industry-leading technology, and providing innovative digital solutions.

Nic ApplebyCTO

Natalie has successfully evolved MasterStart's work model by implementing various initiatives to promote skills development, recruitment, and B-BBEE regulations. Natalie ensures the smooth functioning of the workplace and focuses on building a positive and inclusive work environment.

Natalie Bitton Head of People

Marc has been implementing valuable strategies in senior financial positions for more than 11 years. He has focussed on creating growth and efficiencies that push the boundaries of excellence within organisations.

Marc CicatelloCFO

Graham has over 10 years of experience in online businesses, ranging from technology, retail, and education, Covering high-impact roles from product to performance marketing, his focus now is on brand building, product positioning, and go-to-market strategies.

Graham du PlessisHead of Marketing

Giovanni is an experienced Sales leader with a demonstrated history of working in the tech and SaaS industries. His primary focus will be to drive overall business growth & execute on Masterstart's go-to-market strategy.

Giovanni HofmeyerCommercial Director

Of Learners Recommend Us

Offering outstanding courses, industry experts and a unique learning experience.

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Of learners developed new skills

Our humanised online learning method will guide you every step of the way, providing support and flexibility for learners at every turn.

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learners have succeeded on our courses

Learners have developed greater confidence, competence, and curiosity.

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Businesses have enrolled employees on our courses

Companies like ABSA, Liberty, Standard Bank, and EOH trust us as a reliable provider of online skills development and training.

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NPS score throughout 2022

Our humanised learning method is rated as exceptional, surpassing the e-learning industry’s good standards of 30-50%.

our story

MasterStart journey

Our first partnership, reselling USB-ED courses.

2016

Expanded USB-ED partnership and produced and delivered 12 courses 2017

Our founder jumped in his car and drove to Johannesburg to expand our partnerships.2018

We officially signed our partnership with GIBS Online.
We also aligned our courses to BBEEE opportunities

2019

Built and went live with 6 more GIBS Online courses.
Partnered with UCT GSB.
Cambridge Spark.

2020

First UK University partnership.
Our first technical courses went live.
Adjusted and grew our operating and partnership model.
We partnered with Wits Business School.
Signed a new contract with GIBS Online.
Signed deals with 3 international
industry bodies, 2 headliners and 3 subject matter experts.

2021

Expanded our GIBS Online course offering.
Launched 6 new courses with Wits Business School.
Partnered with Richfield Graduate School of Technology.

2022

MasterStart relaunch of our website
MasterStart NEXT rebranded and relaunched as MasterStart SA

2023

JOIN OUR TEAM

Be a human behind our humanised learning experience

We are looking for dedicated individuals who wish to work with an edtech business that is actively reshaping the way that online short courses and skills development are provided in Africa and beyond.

Our people are passionate about what we do, flexible in our approach and committed to thriving together.

If you are interested in working in a dynamic, fast-paced and fast-growing company, send your CV to [email protected]