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Payne will lead all strategy and operations for Sesame Workshop South Africa (SWSA), leveraging the strength of Takalani Sesame to advance the organisation’s mission to help children everywhere grow smarter, stronger, and kinder.
“Mari is a proven leader with an impressive track record of championing children and families across South Africa,” said Lesley Bourns, senior vice president, Impact Programs. “She brings nearly two decades of experience in early childhood learning, leading high-profile initiatives, and cultivating strategic partnerships that drive both impact and sustainable growth. Mari is exceptionally well positioned to lead Sesame Workshop South Africa’s next chapter.”
Payne first joined SWSA in March 2019, serving as the director: education and outreach for four years, before becoming deputy managing director and senior director of education and programmes in 2024.
Most recently, she served as acting managing director, stewarding curriculum development and overseeing programme design and implementation in South Africa.
Beyond her time with SWSA, Payne brings nearly 20 years of experience in child rights, child law, early childhood development, and education. She has held pivotal roles at Save the Children South Africa and Unicef South Africa, where she contributed to transformative education and advocacy projects that reached more than 130,000 children directly and millions more through broadcast and digital platforms.
“For over 25 years, SWSA has reached millions of children across the country with critical early education and lessons about respect and the humanity of others — including fundamental values like sharing, caring, and being kind,” said Payne. “I’m excited and energized to lead this crucial work and continue driving our vital impact initiatives.”
