Jan-Willem Breure Joins the Joburg Film Festival Jury (JFF) - Septimius Awards Director becomes Judge at South Africa Oscar Qualifying Film Festival in Johannesburg

The golden horizon of South African cinema continues to expand, and the 2026 Joburg Film Festival marks a significant moment in this evolution with the appointment of Jan-Willem Breure (Director & Founder of the Septimius Awards) to its international jury. Breure, an acclaimed filmmaker and entrepreneur, brings a perspective forged through a life of global transitions. Born in Rwanda and later adopted by Dutch missionaries, his journey took him through the landscapes of Kenya and Namibia before he eventually settled in the Netherlands. This cross-continental upbringing gave him a rare understanding of the nuances inherent in African storytelling, a trait that has defined his professional career.

As the founder and director of the Septimius Awards in Amsterdam, Breure has revolutionized how international film accolades are distributed. Often referred to as the Oscars of Europe, the Septimius Awards are unique for their continental categorization. By dividing major awards like Best Film and Best Actor by region—Africa, Asia, Europe, America, and Oceania—Breure ensured that talent from every corner of the globe is judged within its own cultural context rather than being overshadowed by Western-centric standards. This commitment to diversity makes him an ideal choice for the Joburg Film Festival, an event dedicated to showcasing the vibrancy of African cinema alongside global masterpieces.

South Africa has enjoyed a particularly fruitful relationship with Breure’s Septimius Awards. In 2024, the powerhouse actress Nomzamo Mbatha took home the trophy for Best African Actress for her formidable portrayal of Queen Nandi in the epic series Shaka Ilembe. The series itself, a masterclass in South African production, also secured wins for Best Costume Design and Best Makeup and Hairstyling, highlighting the technical excellence found in the local industry. Other notable South African triumphs at the Amsterdam ceremony include the recognition of the film Old Righteous Blues and the series Spinners, both of which have been celebrated for their authentic depiction of contemporary South African life.

Joining Breure on the 2026 jury are five other distinguished figures who represent a broad spectrum of the film industry. Among them is Dorothee Wenner, a renowned German filmmaker, curator, and writer whose deep expertise in global cinema has made her a mainstay at international festivals. Her presence ensures a rigorous academic and directorial lens during the selection process. Alongside her sits Keith Shiri, a United Kingdom-based curator and producer known as a fierce advocate for African cinema. Shiri’s long-standing dedication to promoting African voices on the world stage complements Breure’s own mission of inclusivity.

The panel also benefits from the deep-rooted industry knowledge of South African icons and international experts. Multi-award-winning producer Carolyn Carew brings years of experience in navigating the complexities of film funding and production within the continent. Her practical insights into the industry are balanced by the presence of artistic visionaries like Lesotho-born filmmaker Lemohang Jeremiah Mosese, whose work often explores themes of identity and tradition through a surrealist lens. Rounding out the group is Njoki Muhoho, a published author and filmmaker from Kenya, who previously noted that the jury process is a meeting of minds where diversity of knowledge is the ultimate strength.

The 2026 edition of the festival, themed Feel the Frame, focuses on the sensory essence of cinema. Breure and his fellow jurors are tasked with evaluating a selection that includes high-profile projects such as Raoul Peck’s historical reflection and the intimate Sun-baked landscapes of local productions. For Breure, this role is a continuation of his life’s work: bridging the gap between continents and ensuring that the textures and rhythms of African life are felt by audiences everywhere. His appointment signifies a growing synergy between European and African film institutions, promising a future where the frames of South African stories are recognized for their universal power and unparalleled craft. Together, this diverse jury stands as a testament to the festival's status as a premier platform for cinematic excellence.