South African EdTech Startup Earns Global Recognition
Despite a thriving startup scene, South Africa often lacks global recognition. However, Teach Me 2’s recent inclusion in TIME’s Top EdTech Companies for 2026 signifies a breakthrough. This achievement highlights that technology firms founded in South Africa can hold their own against some of the most prominent players in the global education sector.
Innovative Tutoring Solutions for Families
Teach Me 2 specializes in connecting families with skilled tutors. To date, the platform has facilitated over 1 million tutoring sessions across various subjects, accommodating learners from the first year of school through university. The tutoring can be conducted online or in person, emphasizing personalized approaches that not only address specific learning challenges but also enhance students’ confidence and skill sets. Currently, more than 10,000 families utilize the platform.
Encouraging Growth in South African Tech
Nick Miller, founder and CEO of Teach Me 2, expresses hope that this prestigious recognition will serve as motivation for the broader South African technology landscape. He emphasizes the untapped talent in the country, stating that many can tackle complex challenges, build enduring businesses, and thrive in international markets. Although the local environment may pose challenges, it is indeed possible to establish world-class educational technology from South Africa.
Strategic Decision-Making to Drive Growth
Reflecting on his journey, Nick notes that two pivotal decisions have significantly altered Teach Me 2’s trajectory. First, in 2017, the company made substantial investments in technology aimed at better matching tutors with students, improving customer support, and enhancing learning outcomes—all while scaling the business responsibly. The second crucial move was the early development of online tutoring capabilities. When the COVID-19 pandemic halted in-person education, Teach Me 2 was already positioned to shift its operations online, ultimately expanding its reach to over 50 countries.
Core Principles Fueling Success
The Teach Me 2 approach is rooted in a fundamental problem-solving philosophy. Nick explains that rather than jumping on technology trends, they prioritize what genuinely aids learner improvement. This focus allows the company to integrate technology in a way that enhances accessibility, consistency, and scalability in education. Building strong relationships with learners is central to their mission, further fostering trust and loyalty among clients.
Valuing Instructor Quality and Customer Feedback
Nick attributes part of Teach Me 2’s success to its rigorous selection process for tutors. “Our benchmark is simple: Would you want this person to tutor your child?” he states. While academic qualifications are important, traits such as character, reliability, and the ability to connect with students are equally essential. Tutors aren’t just providers of information; they play a vital role in families’ lives. By prioritizing character and connection, Teach Me 2 has gained trust, enhancing client retention and generating organic referrals.
Navigating Challenges and Building Resilience
Nick advises emerging founders to differentiate between pedigree and actual ability, reflecting on his experiences in Silicon Valley where confidence is prevalent among entrepreneurs. South African founders must recognize their strengths while maintaining humility. He believes that launching a business in South Africa imbues one with resilience to navigate challenges such as power outages and economic fluctuations. Effective founders balance the confidence to engage in global markets with a willingness to learn locally.
Leveraging Technology for the Future of Tutoring
The recognition of Teach Me 2 coincides with a significant period in education, marked by the increasing prominence of AI technology. Nick asserts that successful learning encompasses much more than simply accessing information; it requires human interaction for personalized support and accountability. He envisions a future where AI and technology are not seen as substitutes for human educators but as tools that make teaching and tutoring more efficient, ultimately broadening access to quality education for families. He expresses pride in his team’s relentless pursuit of making Teach Me 2 a sustainable and impactful global business, positioning them to continue evolving and enhancing educational support for the next generation.
