“Takalani Sesame,” South Africa’s longest-running children’s educational broadcast, has reached a significant milestone with its nomination for the 52nd International Emmy Awards.
The beloved show, which has been setting the standard for informative, inspirational preschool programming for over 20 years, has received a nomination in the Kids: Factual category for its “Big Feelings” special.
“Takalani Sesame” is the second South African production to be nominated for this year’s prestigious prizes, following “Die Brug” from kykNET. “Die Brug” will compete in the Best Non-Scripted Entertainment category.
Mari Payne, deputy managing director and senior director Education and Outreach at Sesame Workshop International South Africa (SWISA), thanked the International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences for the nomination, as well as the South African and New York ISI teams for their efforts in producing the show.
“This nomination reflects our team’s passion to helping children grow smarter, stronger, and kinder.
“‘Takalani Sesame’s Big Feelings Special’ is a labour of love, focused on teaching our strategic goal of emotional wellbeing to children and parents and folks of all ages across South Africa,” claimed Payne.
During the 14th season special, furry friends Reporter Elmo, Reporter Zuzu, and Reporter Zikwe embark on a journey to discover how South Africans of all ages encounter and deal with “big feelings”.
Along the trip, they meet renowned South Africans like comedian David Kau and Banyana Banyana soccer stars to learn ways for coping and thriving while experiencing strong emotions.
In addition to the Emmy nomination, “Takalani Sesame” has been nominated for Best Children’s Programme at the 2024 South African Film and Television Awards.
The winners of the 2024 International Emmy Awards will be announced at a lavish ceremony on Monday, November 25 in New York City.
