Tshepiso Chikapa-Phiri (MoonLighting Films) and Barbara Hofwijks (Vattenfall) hand of trophies at the Septimius Awards 2025 in Amsterdam

AMSTERDAM — The 2025 Septimius Awards, a beacon for diversity and talent in the global film industry, culminated in a spectacular ceremony on September 4th at the iconic Tuschinski Theater in Amsterdam. The evening was a celebration of cinematic achievement, with a moment of particular significance being the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award. In a touching and powerful moment, a trio of distinguished women—Barbara Hofwijks, Carolyn Collinda, and Tshepiso Chikapa-Phiri—took the stage to present the coveted trophy, embodying the very spirit of the awards.

A Confluence of Talent and Influence

The Septimius Awards have a reputation for not only honoring the best in film and television but also for bringing together a diverse group of influential figures from around the globe. This year's ceremony was no exception. The decision to have Hofwijks, Collinda, and Chikapa-Phiri present the Lifetime Achievement Award was a deliberate and impactful choice, symbolizing the convergence of different sectors and experiences that contribute to the rich tapestry of the arts. Each woman, a leader in her own right, brought a unique perspective to the stage, underscoring the award's message of broad and lasting impact.

Barbara Hofwijks: Beyond the Boardroom

Known for her work at the energy giant Vattenfall, Barbara Hofwijks has built a career that bridges the corporate world with a deep commitment to cultural and environmental activities. While her professional life focuses on sustainable energy solutions, particularly in her role as an environmental analyst, Hofwijks is also a passionate advocate for the arts and cultural preservation. Her work with Vattenfall often involves partnerships and initiatives that support local communities and cultural projects, demonstrating that corporate responsibility can extend far beyond a company's primary business. She has been instrumental in organizing cultural events and sponsoring artistic endeavors, believing that a healthy society thrives on both economic and creative vitality. Her presence on the Septimius Awards stage was a testament to this philosophy—a powerful reminder that individuals can effect change and support the arts regardless of their professional background. Her ability to navigate these two seemingly disparate worlds makes her a unique and inspiring figure.

Tshepiso Chikapa-Phiri: The African Film Powerhouse

Joining Hofwijks on stage was Tshepiso Chikapa-Phiri, a formidable figure in the African and global film industry. As the CEO and founder of the Known Associates Group, she has spent over two decades building a career that has shaped the South African and broader African media landscape. Chikapa-Phiri’s journey began with her early involvement in international events like the North Sea Jazz Festival and the Sithengi Film Festival. Her move into television and film production in 2007 was a pivotal moment, leading her to become an associate producer on the drama series Zone14. Her entrepreneurial spirit truly flourished with the establishment of Known Associates Entertainment, which has since become a major player in production and finance. Chikapa-Phiri's resume boasts an impressive list of productions, including her role as the South African Production Executive on major Hollywood features like Universal Studios' Beast, starring Idris Elba, and the Sony Pictures epic, The Woman King, featuring Viola Davis. She has also produced acclaimed local films that have found international success, such as The Umbrella Man, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, and the Netflix feature Wild Is The Wind. Her work is not just about producing films; it's about building a sustainable and thriving film ecosystem in Africa. Her recent acquisition of Moonlighting Films PTY Ltd and the development of a state-of-the-art studio in Gauteng are clear indicators of her vision and commitment. Her presence on the stage celebrated not just the achievements of the Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, but also the rising influence of African cinema on the global stage.

Carolyn Collinda: The Multitalented Maven

The third presenter, Carolyn Collinda, brought her own unique blend of experience as a Dutch-Surinamese actress and businessperson. Collinda is perhaps best known for founding the Miss Grand Belgium beauty pageant in 2021 through her company, CC Productions. However, her creative pursuits extend far beyond pageantry. She is a trained actress who has appeared in films and commercials, and is recognized for her role in the Nepali film LappanChappan 2, which premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Her multifaceted career, which seamlessly combines entrepreneurship with acting, modeling, and event production, reflects the diverse pathways to success in the creative industries. Collinda’s ability to move between the worlds of business and art made her an ideal choice to help honor a career dedicated to lasting artistic impact.

A Night of Stars and Legacy

As the three women stood together on the Tuschinski Theater stage, the atmosphere was electric. Their collective presence was more than just a ceremony highlight; it was a powerful statement about the interconnectedness of different fields and the importance of recognizing talent in all its forms. The Septimius Awards have always strived to be a platform that champions global talent and celebrates diverse narratives. With Barbara Hofwijks, Carolyn Collinda, and Tshepiso Chikapa-Phiri as its emissaries for the evening's most significant honor, the 2025 ceremony solidified its reputation as a truly international and inclusive event, leaving an indelible mark on both the winners and attendees.

The night's top honors went to a diverse range of cinematic works and talents. Among the most notable recipients, Jonathan Majors won Best American Actor for his performance in Jonathan Majors, while Meagan Good took home the award for Best American Actress for Divorce in the Black. The coveted award for Best European Film was presented to Vermiglio, and the Best African Film award was given to Old Righteous Blues. The Best Director award was presented to the director of Saturn Return. The ceremony also honored Neil Corbould, Jenny Shircore, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Irv Gotti, and Kevin Spacey with the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing their enduring contributions to the film and entertainment industries.