[7] Payne earned a journalism degree from Carleton University, where she graduated with high honours.

Prior to her election, Payne worked in administrative and management capacities for over 15 years, and as owner and operator of her own yoga business since 2010.

[8] In the 2015 election, Payne beat former Tory cabinet minister Jonathan Denis, despite being outspent $79,171 to $240 during the campaign.

[9] Prior to her cabinet appointment, Payne served as deputy chair of the Select Special Ethics and Accountability Committee.

Payne joined Stephanie McLean as the first pregnant women in Alberta to hold cabinet posts.