Jan-Willem Breure – Founder & Director of the Septimius Awards – Forbes
Photo Credit by The Septimius Awards
Amsterdam, known for its rich artistic legacy, has given rise to a new star in the world of cinema—the Septimius Awards. Frequently referred to as the “Oscars of Europe,” and with global ambassadors like Stedman Graham (partner of Oprah Winfrey), this event is a far cry from the standards of the awards circuit. Founded by Jan-Willem Breure, a filmmaker with an inspiring background that stretches from Rwanda to the Netherlands, the award ceremony seeks to change how films are celebrated across the globe.
Held annually in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, the Septimius Awards span two days filled with industry panel discussions and a glamorous ceremony celebrating outstanding films, actors, and filmmakers worldwide.
Jan-Willem Breure: A Film Magnate
Breure’s story is as captivating as the films his awards honor. Born in Rwanda, he faced many challenges early on, including being adopted by missionaries and growing up in Kenya and Namibia before moving to the Netherlands. There, he pursued his passion for film at The Hague’s Royal Academy of Art, where he specialized in interactive media design.
Breure’s life experiences gave him a deep appreciation for diversity and inclusion, which he has woven into the Septimius Awards. Beyond simply honoring cinematic excellence, Breure sought to create a platform for filmmakers from all backgrounds. Such ideas can be found in the awards’ very structure, which divides categories like best film and best actor by continent, giving each region fair representation. “Every award ceremony has a cultural bias,” Breure admits. “But we’ve tried to minimize that by splitting our awards into five world regions.“
Facing Conventional Norms
Truly embracing diversity at the fundamental level, The Septimius Awards has been praised by sponsors and industry professionals alike. Unlike many ceremonies favoring Western films, this event takes a global view. Dividing key categories into five regions—Europe, America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania—the awards seeks to present a fairer representation of talent worldwide.
This fresh concept has been met with enthusiasm from filmmakers and audiences as well. Each year sees attendance from Oscar winners like Cuba Gooding Jr. and Janty Yates.
Breure believes that “true change stems from independence.” He champions the idea that people of color must control their platforms—an idea integral to the Septimius Awards. These awards also seek to cultivate future talent by offering new filmmakers financial support and mentorship opportunities.
A Global Celebration of Cinema
The Septimius Awards have quickly become one of the most respected international award ceremonies. With influential ambassadors like Stedman Graham, the partner of Oprah Winfrey and known for his leadership through identity, the event continues to grow in stature.
As it expands in scope and funding, the Septimius Awards shows no signs of stopping its mission to celebrate excellence without losing sight of inclusivity. More than simply honoring past achievements, the awards are a monument to a future where all voices are heard equally.
