Idris Elba made an emotional return to Barking & Dagenham College, where MOBO honored the global star with a ‘Paving the Way’ stone to celebrate his trailblazing work in film, music, and activism.

Details below…

The London native, who studied Performing Arts at the college in the 90s, was joined by MOBO founder Kanya King CBE and current students for the special red carpet style unveiling.

The stone features Elba’s own words:

“Don’t get labelled – labels are for cans.”

Watch his heartfelt speech below:

Reflecting on the honor, Elba said:

“Coming back to Barking & Dagenham College, the place where I first started to shape my creative voice, and being recognised by MOBO in this way is a full-circle moment. MOBO has always stood for more than just music; it’s about visibility, opportunity and pushing culture forward. To be honoured with a Paving the Way stone here, where my journey began, is deeply meaningful. I hope it stands as a reminder to every student walking through these doors that greatness can come from anywhere.”

With this tribute, Elba joins icons like Ms Dynamite, Wiley, and Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill in the prestigious Paving the Way series, cementing his legacy as a legend who never forgot where it all began.

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