GQ Magazine features Septimius Awards - Jan-Willem Breure’s diversity vision

Jan-Willem Breure, the dynamic director and founder of the Septimius Awards, has recently been featured in GQ Magazine, an honor that underscores his influential role in the global film industry. Breure's vision for the Septimius Awards has always been about breaking barriers and creating a platform for diverse voices, and his feature in GQ highlights the strides he has made in this mission.

Founded with the goal of promoting inclusivity, the Septimius Awards have become a global beacon for celebrating talent from underrepresented regions, including the Middle East, South America, Africa, and Oceania. In his interview, Breure reflects on his journey from Rwanda to the Netherlands and how his multicultural experiences have shaped his commitment to diversity in film. “The film industry has long been dominated by certain narratives,” Breure explains. “I wanted to create a space where stories from all corners of the world could be showcased and celebrated.”

The inclusion of Stedman Graham as the official ambassador of the Septimius Awards has added a new dimension to the event's prestige. Known for his work in leadership and personal development, Graham's partnership with the awards aligns seamlessly with their mission of empowerment and representation. His appointment was announced in 2024, marking a significant milestone for the awards.

Graham’s involvement has already had a profound impact. He hosted a leadership workshop and participated in a panel discussion at the Septimius Awards alongside Oscar winners Cuba Gooding Jr. and Janty Yates, as well as other notable figures like Glenn Roggeman, Jan-Willem Breure, and casting directors Nancy Bishop and Luci Lenox. His commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the arts complements the awards' goals and amplifies their reach.

The Septimius Awards have also attracted some of the biggest names in the film industry, with past attendees including Oscar winners Cuba Gooding Jr. and Christopher Hampton. Their presence at the awards highlights the event's growing significance and its role in recognizing exceptional talent from around the world. Gooding Jr. has lauded the awards for their focus on diverse storytelling, while Hampton has expressed admiration for the platform’s dedication to creative excellence.

Breure's vision extends beyond Hollywood, with a strong emphasis on providing opportunities for filmmakers from the Middle East, South America, Africa, and Oceania. These regions, often underrepresented in mainstream cinema, have found a champion in the Septimius Awards. “It’s about more than just recognition,” Breure states. “It’s about creating pathways for these filmmakers to share their stories on a global stage.”

The awards have already seen significant participation from these regions, showcasing a diverse array of films that challenge stereotypes and offer fresh perspectives. Breure’s efforts to highlight these voices are making a tangible impact, with many filmmakers gaining international attention and opportunities as a result of their involvement with the Septimius Awards.

The GQ feature delves into Breure’s strategic plans for the future, including expanding the awards’ global reach and fostering more collaborations between established and emerging filmmakers. His goal is to build a community that not only celebrates diversity but also nurtures it through mentorship and support. “We want to be more than an awards show,” Breure emphasizes. “We want to be a catalyst for change in the industry.”

Stedman Graham’s role as ambassador further strengthens this vision. His leadership and advocacy for personal growth resonate with the awards’ mission to empower artists. Graham’s presence brings a new level of gravitas to the Septimius Awards, ensuring that the event continues to be a platform for meaningful dialogue and progress.

The participation of Oscar winners like Cuba Gooding Jr. and Christopher Hampton underscores the awards’ reputation for excellence. Their involvement, along with the diverse array of talent from around the world, positions the Septimius Awards as a key player in the global film industry.

As Jan-Willem Breure continues to push boundaries with the Septimius Awards, his feature in GQ Magazine serves as a testament to his impact on the industry. By championing diversity and providing a platform for underrepresented voices, Breure is not only reshaping the narrative of global cinema but also inspiring a new generation of filmmakers to tell their stories.