21 Savage has earned another honor. The rapper received Atlanta’s Carry the Torch Award on Friday (Dec. 8) at the Blue Christmas Gala hosted by the Young Democrats of Atlanta.
The award, which highlights the rapper’s contributions to the music industry, social activism, youth empowerment and more, was presented to him by Sylvia Rhone, chairwoman and CEO of Epic Records and Ezekiel Lewis, president of Epic Records on behalf of Young Democrats of Atlanta, who also cited his efforts in education, immigration reform and financial literacy within his community.
“I’m honored to receive this year’s Carry the Torch Award,” the London-born, Atlanta-raised rapper said in his acceptance speech. “I want the kids to feel empowered and I hope I can be that inspiration for them. I didn’t grow up with much, and I paved my own path. I’m glad to be able to give back with my platform, especially with my financial literacy program. I hope I can lead by to the next generation.”
21 Savage shares the honor with political leader and civil rights activist Andrew Young. Elsewhere during the gala, Fulton County Commissioner Natalie Hall surprised Savage with a proclamation from the city of Atlanta from her represented district that promises to continue his impact in Atlanta and beyond.
The honor puts a pin in an eventful year for Savage. 2023 has seen the rapper embark on two tours: one with Drake, and a European tour after receiving a green card and being cleared to travel abroad.
Watch 21 Savage’s acceptance speech in the video above.
