The Septimius Awards vs the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus

In the heart of Amsterdam, the vibrant city known for its artistic and cultural diversity, an awards ceremony has taken shape that not only celebrates cinematic excellence but also pays homage to history's overlooked hero, Septimius Severus, the first Black Roman Emperor. The Septimius Awards, founded by the Rwandese-born Dutch visionary, Jan-Willem Breure, is a unique event that aims to bring more diversity to the film industry while honoring the legacy of a remarkable figure from the past.

The Septimius Awards take their name from Septimius Severus, a Roman Emperor who reigned from 193 to 211 AD. Born in present-day Libya, Septimius Severus was of African descent and became the first Roman Emperor from a non-European background. His life and reign are a testament to the power of diversity and inclusion even in the most significant positions of power.

The trophies awarded at the Septimius Awards are not your typical statuettes. They are, in fact, smaller replicas of the actual bust of the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus. These unique awards symbolize the celebration of diversity, acknowledging that talent knows no boundaries of race or ethnicity. Jan-Willem Breure's choice to design these trophies in the likeness of Septimius Severus is a powerful statement that diversity is a source of strength, not a hindrance.

Jan-Willem Breure, the visionary behind the Septimius Awards, has a fascinating background that contributes to the uniqueness of this event. Born in Rwanda and adopted by a Dutch family, he has experienced firsthand the importance of diversity and inclusion. His journey from Africa to Europe has given him a perspective that few in the film industry possess. He has witnessed the power of storytelling to bridge cultural gaps and connect people from all walks of life. Inspired by his own experiences and the life of Septimius Severus, Breure wanted to create an event that celebrates diversity and encourages it within the film industry.

In an industry that has often been criticized for its lack of diversity, the Septimius Awards stand as a beacon of hope and change. They recognize the importance of representation on and off the screen, and they provide a platform for underrepresented voices to be heard and celebrated. The awards honor filmmakers, actors, and other industry professionals who have contributed to the creation of diverse and thought-provoking content that challenges stereotypes and promotes inclusivity.

The Septimius Awards ceremony is a grand affair, attracting some of the biggest names in the film industry from around the world. It is a night of glamour, where talent and creativity are celebrated, and where the message of diversity and unity is loudly and proudly proclaimed. The awards are presented in various categories, ranging from Best Film and Best Director to Best Actor and Actress, and even categories that specifically acknowledge diversity and inclusivity in filmmaking.

Beyond the glitz and glamour, the Septimius Awards aim to make a real impact. By providing financial support and mentorship opportunities to emerging filmmakers from diverse backgrounds, they are actively fostering the next generation of talent. In doing so, they are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the film industry and proving that diversity can be a driving force for innovation and success.

In a world that is becoming increasingly diverse and interconnected, the Septimius Awards serve as a reminder that embracing differences and celebrating diversity is not just a moral imperative but also a source of strength and inspiration. By naming the awards after Septimius Severus and designing trophies in his likeness, Jan-Willem Breure and his team are sending a powerful message that transcends time and place. The Septimius Awards are not just about honoring the past; they are about shaping the future of the film industry, one that is more inclusive, diverse, and vibrant than ever before.