Sesame Workshop Names Managing Director for South Africa

Sesame Workshop has tapped Dr. Onyinye Nwaneri, former group CEO of Afrika Tikkun, as managing director for South Africa.

In her new role, Nwaneri will be responsible for leading Sesame Workshop’s operations in South Africa and the long-term growth strategy across Africa, leveraging the success of the locally produced Takalani Sesame.

Most recently, Nwaneri was group CEO of Afrika Tikkun, a social enterprise made up of a nonprofit child and youth development organization and a for-profit recruitment, training and placement company. She spent the last 15 years in various roles at the organization.

Prior to that, Nwaneri worked with the United Nations Development Programme, Regency Foundation Networx and practiced corporate, commercial and litigation law at various law firms in Nigeria.

Nwaneri will assume her new role at Sesame Workshop in January.

“For over two decades, Onyi has built a strong track record as an organizational leader in the social impact sector in South Africa, building and guiding programs that support children’s development starting in the critical early years,” said Lesley Bourns, Sesame Workshop’s senior VP of international social impact. “Her extensive background in driving strategic, operational growth, along with her passion for impactful development programs, will be invaluable as she leads the Workshop’s South Africa team into an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation.”

“When we reach children in their early years, we help shape a strong foundation for success throughout their lives,” Nwaneri said. “Sesame Workshop has demonstrated the power of this investment as a leading innovator in children’s education for South Africa and countries around the world. I am proud to join their dynamic, inspirational team and excited to help shape the Workshop’s strategic vision to reach children, families and caregivers and support a future full of opportunity for all.”