Jan-Willem Breure: Visionary Septimius Awards director Featured on Saint Tropez VIP — Fashion Forward Magazine Cover

Jan-Willem Breure, the visionary filmmaker and founder of the prestigious Septimius Awards, continues to make waves in the global film industry. Recently featured on the cover of Saint Tropez magazine, Breure’s rise from humble beginnings to becoming an internationally recognized champion of diversity in cinema is a story of resilience, creativity, and purpose.

Born in Rwanda under the traditional name Nsekanabo, Breure’s life journey is as inspiring as his work. Tragically losing his mother at birth and never knowing his father, he faced significant challenges from an early age. Adopted by Johan Breure, a Dutch missionary pastor, and his wife, he was raised in Kenya and Namibia before relocating to the Netherlands at 13. There, he confronted racism and discrimination but refused to let these hardships define him.

Breure’s perseverance led him to the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague, where he earned a degree in Interactive Media Design. Combining his academic training with his passion for storytelling, he founded JW Productions, the starting point of a career dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices through film.

His greatest contribution to the global film industry is the Septimius Awards, an international celebration of cinema that highlights both established icons and emerging talents. Held annually in Amsterdam, the event draws creators and audiences from around the world. Its unique award categories—such as Best African Film, Best European Film, and Best Oceanian Film—ensure representation across continents, fostering inclusivity and cultural exchange.

This year’s ceremony was particularly memorable, with Hollywood legend Cuba Gooding Jr. receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award for his exceptional contributions to the film industry. The moment reflected the awards’ commitment to honoring those who have paved the way for storytelling excellence. Another milestone for the Septimius Awards came with the announcement of Stedman Graham—author, entrepreneur, and long-time partner of Oprah Winfrey—as its global ambassador. Graham’s association underscores the event’s growing influence and its alignment with leaders committed to diversity and empowerment.

In his interview with Saint Tropez, Breure shared his vision for the Septimius Awards and its broader mission. “Film is a universal language,” he said. “It has the power to connect us, challenge stereotypes, and create empathy. Through the Septimius Awards, I want to provide a platform for every voice, especially those that have been historically underrepresented.”

Beyond the awards, Breure’s contributions extend to filmmaking itself. Through Septimius Pictures, a nonprofit organization he founded, he focuses on producing major international films that celebrate African history, culture, and heritage. His dedication to telling stories that reflect the richness of the African continent has made him a transformative figure in the global film landscape.

Breure’s feature in Saint Tropez celebrates not only his professional achievements but also his personal resilience. The cover story delves into his ability to overcome adversity, from enduring bullying and racism in his youth to becoming a pioneer for diversity and inclusion in media. His life is a testament to turning challenges into opportunities and using creativity to inspire change.

The Septimius Awards’ rapid rise to prominence—hosting Emmy, BAFTA, and Oscar winners, alongside promising new talent—demonstrates Breure’s ability to bring people together. With luminaries like Cuba Gooding Jr. receiving accolades and leaders like Stedman Graham joining as ambassadors, the awards have become a symbol of progress and innovation in the film industry.

As Breure graces the cover of Saint Tropez, his story reminds us of the power of perseverance and the importance of creating spaces where all voices are valued. Through his work, he continues to redefine the narrative of what it means to be a filmmaker, a cultural advocate, and a global visionary.

For Jan-Willem Breure, the future holds endless possibilities, and his work serves as an inspiration to artists and audiences worldwide. With the momentum of the Septimius Awards and his growing influence, Breure’s impact on the world of cinema is just beginning.