British actor and global icon Idris Elba made an emotional return to his alma mater, Barking & Dagenham College, where the MOBO Awards recognized him with a prestigious ‘Paving the Way’ stone.
Elba, who studied Performing Arts at the college in the 1990s, was joined by MOBO founder Kanya King CBE and current students for the red-carpet style unveiling ceremony.
The commemorative stone is inscribed with Elba’s inspiring message:
“Don’t get labelled – labels are for cans.”
This honor celebrates Elba’s groundbreaking achievements in film, music, and activism, marking his enduring influence both in the UK and globally.
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.
