Sevengers (India) & Sheli Masondo (Shaka iLembe): The winners Impact of the Septimius Awards 2024

The Septimius Awards 2024 brought together a dazzling array of talent, showcasing the very best in filmmaking, design, and content creation from across the globe. Among the many highlights of the evening, two winners stood out for their extraordinary achievements—Sheli Masondo, honored for Best Costume Design for her work on Shaka iLembe, and Sevengers, awarded Best Content Creator. Their wins not only marked personal milestones but also ignited celebrations in South Africa and India, uniting their communities in a shared sense of pride.

Sevengers: India’s Digital Stars Shine on a Global Stage

Sevengers, a dynamic group of Indian content creators, captured international attention with their win for Best Content Creator. Known for their inventive, humorous videos that tackle everything from pop culture to social issues, the team has garnered a massive following across social media platforms in India. Their relatable content speaks to the everyday lives of millions, blending humor and insight with a keen understanding of their audience.

Upon their return to India, Sevengers were met with an overwhelming reception at the airport. Fans cheered, and a throng of reporters eagerly awaited their arrival. In interviews with national and local media, the team reflected on how their win belonged to the community that had supported them from the start. “This award is a dream come true, but what really matters is the love and encouragement we get from our fans. We do this for them,” one member shared. The moment was widely celebrated on social media, where fans praised their humility and dedication.

The Sevengers’ triumph not only elevated their individual profiles but also spotlighted India’s burgeoning digital content industry. It was a reminder of the potential for Indian creators to transcend borders and connect with audiences worldwide. Their win illustrated the universal power of storytelling through digital platforms and signaled India’s rising status in the global creative community.

Sheli Masondo: Honoring African Heritage Through Design

Sheli Masondo’s victory for Best Costume Design was a celebration of African heritage, culture, and storytelling. Her work on Shaka iLembe, a historical drama about the legendary Zulu king, showcased her talent for bringing South African history to life through intricate and authentic costume designs. Masondo’s deep understanding of Zulu culture and her attention to historical detail made the series’ portrayal of the Zulu warrior era both visually stunning and culturally significant.

In her emotional acceptance speech, Masondo dedicated the award to her home country. “This win is not just mine—it belongs to South Africa, to our stories, and to our history,” she said. Her words resonated with audiences far beyond the awards ceremony, as her achievement was seen as a triumph for African storytelling on a global platform.

When Masondo returned home to South Africa, she was welcomed by a jubilant crowd of family, friends, and supporters. The national media extensively covered her homecoming, underscoring the impact of her success on the country’s creative industries. Her victory was a source of inspiration for young designers and artists across South Africa, encouraging them to pursue their dreams, knowing that their work could gain international acclaim.

Masondo’s win also underscored the importance of preserving and sharing South African culture with the world. Her designs for Shaka iLembe not only honored the Zulu people but also bridged cultural divides, showcasing the power of African aesthetics to captivate global audiences. Her work stands as a testament to the role of costume design in storytelling, transforming history into a living, breathing visual experience.

A Night of Global Celebration and Fashion

The Septimius Awards 2024 highlighted the universal power of creativity and storytelling, with both Sevengers and Sheli Masondo emerging as champions of their respective crafts. Their wins brought immense pride to India and South Africa, respectively, showing that talent and vision know no borders. As they returned home to warm welcomes, their achievements reverberated through their communities, inspiring others to pursue their passions with renewed determination.

Adding a touch of glamour to the evening, Donnalyn Bartolome took home the coveted "Best Dressed" award. Her stunning outfit not only turned heads but also emphasized the intersection of creativity, personal expression, and fashion in the world of entertainment. It was a fitting close to a night that celebrated excellence in every form—whether in film, design, or the red carpet itself.