Since 2020, Spark has moved at pace
We began as a rapid response organisation during the COVID-19 crisis, translating policy, breaking down complex systems, and making sure our communities had access to information that was accurate, accessible and culturally grounded.
Over time, we evolved. We built programmes. We launched Spark Insights. We collaborated with partners across the charity and social impact sector. We supported leaders, activists and organisations navigating racial injustice in real time.
And then, in July 2025, we paused.
Not because the work was done. Not because racial injustice had slowed. But because we understood something fundamental: if we wanted to build for the long term, we could not continue at the speed and pace we were operating at.
Racial justice is a movement
This movement is made up of many people, organisations, collectives and communities. No single person or organisation carries it alone. Part of our responsibility within that wider ecosystem is to ensure that we can sustain our contribution without burning out, collapsing or compromising our integrity.
The hiatus was intentional. It was rooted in care. It was also personal. Our founder stepped into maternity leave during this period, embracing new adventures and new rhythms alongside the organisational pause. Family, health and restoration were not distractions from the work. They were part of protecting our ability to return to it.
Reconnecting with our original spark
We rested. We reflected. We spent time with loved ones. We slowed down enough to ask deeper questions about how we want to show up in this next chapter. We considered what sustainable systems-change work truly requires. We reconnected with the original spark that brought this organisation into being.
The world did not become less complex while we were away. If anything, the political and social landscape has continued to shift in ways that demand clarity, courage and collective action. But we are reminded that this is a long journey. It is not a sprint. It is not a trend. It is generational work.
We return with renewed energy and intention
Over the past few months, we have been preparing to reconnect with our community and partners. Our core pillars remain steady:
- Accessible support and practical resources for racialised communities
- Research, workshops and consultancy through Spark Insights
- Programmes and opportunities that enable racialised people to know their rights and to thrive.
We are committed to working in ways that are human, thoughtful and grounded in long-term transformation. We are committed to building structures that allow for rest, care and accountability alongside impact.
To everyone who held Spark in mind or in practice while we were away, from our community to our consultants and funders, thank you. Your patience, encouragement and continued belief in our work have meant more than you know.
We have lots planned this year, and we’ll be sharing more over the coming weeks. In the mean time, you can:
- Explore our support hubs to find practical resources and guidance:
- Find out about Grassroots Run Deep: Our new programme supporting Black and racialised activitists and leaders will launch later this year. Find out more here.
- Learn about our community research on experiences of racism at work: Read our exploration of what racism at work really looks like, from the subtle to the overt, grounded in lived experience and systemic analysis. We’re excited to be working with some amazing partners to build support informed by community voices – watch this space!
We took a shorter break with deep gratitude, and we are proud and excited to be back.