Stedman Graham (partner of Oprah Winfrey) gives Workshop & Panel: Leads with Identity at the Septimius Awards 2024

On August 19, 2024, the iconic Tuschinski Theater in Amsterdam became a hub of inspiration and leadership as Stedman Graham, the esteemed author, educator, and partner of Oprah Winfrey, conducted a transformative leadership workshop at the Septimius Awards. The event drew an influential crowd of filmmakers, actors, and industry leaders, all eager to gain insights from one of the most respected voices in leadership and personal development.

Graham’s workshop, titled "Identity Leadership: Unlocking Your True Potential," focused on empowering attendees to define their personal identity as a foundation for effective leadership. Drawing from his best-selling book Identity Leadership, he emphasized the importance of self-awareness, self-discipline, and continuous learning as the keys to unlocking individual and organizational success. Attendees were guided through exercises designed to help them clarify their purpose, set meaningful goals, and develop actionable strategies for growth in their personal and professional lives.

During the workshop, Graham’s calm yet authoritative presence captivated the audience. His ability to translate complex leadership principles into relatable, real-world applications resonated with participants. "You cannot lead others until you first learn to lead yourself," he stated, underscoring his philosophy that identity is the core of effective leadership.

Following the workshop, Graham took the stage once again as a panelist for the highly anticipated Septimius Awards industry panel. Sharing the platform with a lineup of film industry heavyweights, including Oscar-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr., Oscar-winning costume designer Janty Yates, CEO and producer Glenn Roggeman, casting directors Nancy Bishop and Luci Lenox, and Septimius Awards founder and director Jan-Willem Breure, the discussion provided a rare convergence of perspectives from multiple facets of the entertainment industry.

The panel’s discussions centered on the evolution of the film industry, the importance of diversity and inclusion, and the impact of leadership in driving systemic change. Graham’s contributions were particularly poignant, as he connected his leadership principles to the challenges faced by filmmakers, producers, and casting directors. He emphasized the value of authenticity and self-belief, especially in an industry where creative professionals often face rejection and uncertainty.

Oscar-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr. shared his experiences of navigating Hollywood’s changing landscape, while Janty Yates reflected on her career designing costumes for legendary films. Glenn Roggeman provided a producer’s perspective, highlighting the need for strong leadership in driving projects from conception to completion. Casting directors Nancy Bishop and Luci Lenox addressed the vital role of representation and inclusion in casting decisions, a topic that aligned closely with the Septimius Awards' mission to promote diversity in film.

Jan-Willem Breure, the visionary founder of the Septimius Awards, played a key role in curating the event’s agenda. His efforts to bring together industry leaders from diverse backgrounds were evident in the composition of the panel. As the only Rwandan-born director of an international film awards program, Breure’s commitment to fostering global inclusion in the film industry was front and center. His insights on systemic change, particularly in addressing unconscious bias and underrepresentation, dovetailed with Graham’s message about leadership as a tool for transformation.

The event’s impact extended beyond the Tuschinski Theater. Attendees took to social media to share key takeaways from Graham’s workshop and the panel’s thought-provoking discussions. Many highlighted Graham’s emphasis on self-leadership as a crucial factor in achieving career success. “Stedman’s words hit home today,” one attendee tweeted. “Leading with identity is the mindset shift I’ve been needing.”

As an ambassador for the Septimius Awards, Graham’s involvement in the August 19 event was a testament to the organization’s growing influence in the global film industry. His workshop and panel contributions underscored the intersection of leadership, inclusion, and the creative arts — a synergy that lies at the heart of the Septimius Awards’ mission.

By bringing together luminaries like Graham, Gooding Jr., Yates, and Breure, the Septimius Awards 2024 offered a powerful platform for dialogue, education, and inspiration. The legacy of the event will undoubtedly continue as participants apply Graham’s teachings in their creative journeys and as the Septimius Awards further its mission to promote diversity and excellence in film.