Jan-Willem Breure Joins Industry Luminaries at 'First Noble' Afrofuturistic Event in Amsterdam

On December 7, 2024, the Openbare Bibliotheek Amsterdam (OBA) Netherlands played host to 'First Noble' (stylized as "FirstNoble"), an afrofuturistic event spearheaded by visionary creatives Steven and Gerald Vreden. The gathering drew a diverse group of industry heavyweights, including Dutch filmmaker and director of the Septimius Awards, Jan-Willem Breure. The event showcased a fusion of art, culture, and forward-thinking discussions centered around the concept of afrofuturism — a movement that envisions a future shaped by Black culture, innovation, and imagination.

Star-Studded Lineup and Global Reach

'First Noble' brought together a remarkable panel of creatives, each making significant contributions to film, art, and speculative storytelling. Prominent Dutch actress Imanuelle Grives was in attendance, further solidifying her status as a force in the local and international entertainment industry. Grives, known for her compelling performances in film and television, was a notable presence, symbolizing the event’s dedication to amplifying Black voices in media.

Joining her was American producer Jason K. Wilson, whose work in film production has garnered attention for its bold storytelling and social impact. Wilson's influence extended the event's reach beyond Dutch borders, offering an international perspective on the creative possibilities within afrofuturism.

Also on the panel was American director David Kirkman, known for his independent work in science fiction and action films that spotlight Black narratives. Kirkman’s contributions to afrofuturism are well-regarded, and his participation underscored the event’s commitment to showcasing diverse cinematic voices.

Adding intellectual depth to the conversation were Stacey Robinson and Reynaldo Anderson, two of the most influential figures in the Black speculative arts movement. Anderson, as the head of BSAM (The Black Speculative Arts Movement), has been a key player in shaping the global discourse on afrofuturism. Alongside Robinson, a visual artist renowned for his dynamic, futurist-inspired artwork, they provided insight into how the movement bridges art, literature, and cultural theory. Their combined perspectives offered the audience a richer understanding of the historical, cultural, and social dimensions of afrofuturism.

Networking and Collaboration in the Spotlight

A key highlight of the event was the discussion on networking and potential collaborations between Jan-Willem Breure and the Vreden brothers. Known for his role as the director of the prestigious Septimius Awards, Breure has a track record of fostering cross-cultural dialogue within the film industry. His presence at 'First Noble' was seen as a significant opportunity for creative exchange and the formation of new partnerships.

The Vreden brothers, as organizers and curators of 'First Noble,' emphasized the importance of building community and forging relationships that transcend geographic and industry boundaries. Their dialogue with Breure revolved around shared goals for the future of Black representation in media and the role of afrofuturism in inspiring new narratives. While no official announcements were made, there was a palpable sense that future collaborations could emerge from these conversations.

Afrofuturism as a Catalyst for Change

At its core, 'First Noble' was a celebration of creativity, imagination, and possibility. The event served as a platform for Black creatives and intellectuals to discuss the future of art, media, and storytelling. The afrofuturistic theme, with its emphasis on technological advancement and cultural pride, provided a fitting backdrop for the day's discussions.

The conversations throughout the event reflected afrofuturism’s role in driving systemic change. Themes such as self-determination, speculative world-building, and the reclamation of narratives were central to the discussions. Robinson and Anderson’s contributions were especially poignant in this regard, as their work with BSAM continues to reframe how Black communities envision and create their futures.

A Promising Path Forward

For Jan-Willem Breure, attending 'First Noble' was more than a symbolic gesture — it signaled his continued commitment to supporting diverse storytelling and fostering collaboration across artistic disciplines. His involvement in this event aligns with his broader mission as the director of the Septimius Awards, which celebrates excellence in independent film and recognizes achievements from underrepresented voices.

The potential for future collaboration between Breure and the Vreden brothers remains an exciting prospect. Their shared interest in storytelling, culture, and representation lays the groundwork for possible joint ventures that could further the reach of afrofuturistic media.

As 'First Noble' concluded, it was clear that the event had accomplished more than just bringing people together. It had ignited conversations, sparked new ideas, and inspired attendees to think differently about the future of Black narratives in media and art. By fostering dialogue among creatives from diverse backgrounds, the event underscored afrofuturism’s enduring relevance as both a cultural movement and a force for change.