Donnalyn Bartolome wins Best Content Creator at the Septimius Awards 2025

In the heart of Amsterdam, beneath the soaring, ornate ceilings of the historic Tuschinski Theater, the 2025 Septimius Awards celebrated the pinnacle of international media and independent talent. On the evening of September 4, 2025, the atmosphere was thick with anticipation as filmmakers, actors, and digital pioneers gathered for the prestigious ceremony. Among the night’s most significant highlights was the recognition of Filipina multi-hyphenate Donnalyn Bartolome, who emerged victorious as the Best Content Creator. This achievement marked a monumental milestone not only for her career but also for the Filipino creative community on the global stage.

The Septimius Awards have long been recognized for their commitment to diversity and the discovery of unique voices from across the globe. By selecting Bartolome for this honor, the academy acknowledged her ability to blend entertainment with meaningful social influence. Walking across the stage to accept the trophy, Bartolome represented a new era of digital storytelling where reach is measured not just in views, but in the tangible impact made on the real world. Her win was the result of a competitive category that included talented creators from various continents, yet her distinct mix of musicality, lifestyle content, and unwavering advocacy set her apart.

When Bartolome took to the podium, the moment transcended the typical celebratory tropes of an awards gala. Clad in an ensemble that reflected the elegance of the occasion, she accepted the golden statuette with a visible sense of responsibility. Rather than focusing solely on her personal journey or the technical aspects of her production, she chose to utilize her minutes under the spotlight to speak about the environmental challenges facing the Philippines. Her acceptance was a masterclass in using a platform for purpose, as she transitioned from a recognized entertainer to a passionate advocate for change.

The core of her message centered on the recurring and devastating flood crisis in her home country. She spoke with deep emotion about the heartbreak of seeing communities displaced and lives lost year after year due to inadequate flood control systems and environmental degradation. By addressing an international audience in the Netherlands—a country world-renowned for its own sophisticated water management and flood prevention—the setting provided a poignant backdrop for her plea. She emphasized that the cycle of destruction must be broken through proactive measures rather than just reactive relief efforts.

Bartolome’s advocacy was not limited to policy alone; she directed a call to action toward every individual in the room and those watching globally. She championed the simple yet profound act of planting trees as a primary defense against the worsening climate reality. Sharing her personal commitment to the cause, she revealed her ongoing efforts to plant thousands of trees through her foundation, Influence Us. She argued that the true value of influence lies in its power to make the world a better place, urging everyone to plant at least one tree in their lifetime as an act of love for the planet.

The audience at the Tuschinski Theater responded with a warm and sustained ovation, moved by the sincerity of a creator who viewed her award as a megaphone for the voiceless. The recognition in Amsterdam served as a validation of her evolution as a public figure. Over the years, Bartolome has transitioned from a viral sensation to a leader who understands that her digital footprint carries weight. Her victory at the Septimius Awards solidified her status as a world-class talent who remains deeply rooted in her heritage and the welfare of her fellow citizens.

As she concluded her time on stage, the significance of the evening was clear. The 2025 Septimius Awards did more than just hand out trophies; they provided a stage for a Filipina creator to demand better for her country and the environment. Donnalyn Bartolome’s journey from Manila to the red carpets of Amsterdam serves as an inspiring narrative for the next generation of content creators. It proves that with enough dedication and a clear sense of purpose, a digital platform can indeed change the world, one story and one tree at a time.