For many people in the movie industry, awards season tends to follow a familiar pattern: Los Angeles, London, Cannes. It is often the same names, same structures, and more or less the same stories. But change is in motion. In Amsterdam, a city known for its cultural diversity and creative innovation, a two-day event is offering a unique stage for global cinema. Since its founding in 2022, the Septimius Awards has quickly become one of the widely regarded international platforms for independent film and media. What sets it apart is not just the high-profile attendees or its elegant ceremonies. It is the bold, inclusive philosophy driving it and the impressive team making it happen.
The Septimius Awards were created by Jan-Willem Breure, a Dutch media entrepreneur with a sharp eye for storytelling and a global mindset. His vision was to craft an event that does not simply mimic the established Western awards circuit but aspires to redefine what it means to celebrate excellence in film on a truly international scale. According to Breure, the entertainment industry lacked a platform that equally emphasized both creative excellence and cultural perspective. The Septimius Awards emerged to help fill that void, bridging continents, communities, and creators.
True to its name, the awards draw inspiration from Septimius Severus, the Roman emperor of North African origin who ruled from 193 to 211 AD. The name symbolizes strength, hybridity, and cultural convergence. These are values at the very heart of the Septimius mission. This global perspective is not just symbolic. It is embedded into the very structure of the event. Submissions are welcome from all over the world, with distinct categories for films from Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe, and Oceania. This makes it one of the inclusive and representative award ceremonies of its kind.
What truly powers the event, however, is its extraordinary team. This is a group of visionaries and professionals committed to making the Septimius Awards more than just an annual celebration. At the center of operations is Priscilla Kwarteng, the Head Organizer. With her rare blend of strategic insight and cultural sensitivity, Priscilla has been instrumental in executing Breure’s vision. Under her leadership, the awards have expanded in reach, precision, and prestige. Her ability to balance logistics with creativity ensures that every edition of the event feels well-curated, inclusive, and memorable.
Supporting her is a dedicated operations backbone. Fabian Willems and Francis Kwame Opoku, the event’s Volunteer Coordinators, lead a multinational team that handles everything from guest assistance to backstage logistics. Their coordination ensures a smooth flow throughout the event and cultivates an environment of professionalism and warmth. Their behind-the-scenes efforts play a key role in maintaining the ceremony’s reputation for excellence and hospitality.
The visual and thematic experience of the awards is shaped by Nancy Herkul, the Creative Organizer and an official Ambassador. Known for her flair in visual storytelling and branding, Nancy curates the aesthetic direction of the awards. From stage design to promotional content, she ensures that every touchpoint reflects the sophistication and global essence of the event.
Another crucial force is William Osei Bonsu, who manages logistics. A close friend of Breure, William is more than a coordinator. He is a trusted partner who ensures that the mechanics of the event run smoothly. Whether it is managing venue arrangements, coordinating international travel, or liaising with VIP guests, William’s ability to handle complex details is vital to the event’s operational success.
Technology and inclusion go hand in hand. Mahasin Tanyaui, the Diversity and Tech Director, ensures that both are at the forefront of the awards’ growth. Mahasin champions underrepresented voices while implementing modern technologies, from digital ticketing systems to livestreaming infrastructure. These innovations enhance accessibility and engagement for global audiences.
The strategic direction of the Septimius Awards is further enhanced by Keith L. Craig, the Strategic Creative Director and Ambassador. He is a former Disney executive distributor with a résumé that includes blockbusters such as Black Panther, Avengers, Star Wars, and The Lion King. Craig brings global reach, industry insight, and strategic vision. His involvement adds significant weight to the event’s growing credibility on the world stage.
This powerful team works in harmony to deliver an experience that is more than just ceremonial. The Septimius Awards is a movement designed to facilitate collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the creation of an international creative community. The daytime program includes insightful panel discussions featuring filmmakers, producers, educators, and industry professionals. Topics range from content financing and distribution to the evolving role of film in a multicultural world. In contrast to the often self-congratulatory tone of traditional awards shows, Septimius is built around conversation, participation, and progress.
High-profile ambassadors such as Stedman Graham, educator, writer, and advocate for leadership and equity, align with the event’s values of inclusion and thought leadership. Glenn Roggeman, a Belgian film producer and CEO of AED Group with an estimated net worth of over 300 million euros, brings industry credibility and highlights the awards’ growing recognition. Cuba Gooding Jr., Academy Award winner, attended the 2024 event, contributing to its expanding reach and cross-cultural significance.
While a few large corporations still dominate the international film industry, the Septimius Awards offer a distinctive space where emerging talent can stand shoulder to shoulder with established voices. By recognizing underrepresented regions and cultures, and by opening doors for new business relationships and distribution opportunities, the awards are helping to correct industry imbalance and diversify the global film narrative.
Though still young, the Septimius Awards are no fringe event. It is rapidly earning recognition as a credible, world-class platform for those who believe cinema should reflect the entire globe, not just one part of it. Through its mix of inclusivity, strategic leadership, and unwavering commitment to storytelling, the Septimius Awards is leading the way for international recognition in film and transforming how the world celebrates its creators.
