With more than fifty international award nominations and wins to his credit throughout the last two years, despite his early issues with the law, internationally acclaimed musician Jelly Roll‘s meteoric rise in the music industry has contributed to an indelible mark,
In recognition of advocating for the improvement of foundational literacy within the domestic and international justice system through educational programs and resources, on Tuesday (4.08) the musician (born (Jason DeFord), was presented the Global Literacy Award at the World Literacy Summit 2025 at Oxford University’s Sheldonian Theatre by the CEO of the World Literacy Foundation, Andrew Kay, and Board of Directors’ member, Dr Donald Green, who shared, “we are here to celebrate your advocacy for adult literacy and we say ‘thank you’.”
Addressing the attendees – including representatives from the World Bank, HarperCollins and Penguin Books – Jelly Roll said “We’re in a room full of people who have dedicated most of their life to serving, helping, educating, and leading others. You know what I mean, like that’s what we were called to do. It’s not even what I was called to do. That’s why y’all are here right now. That’s what brought y’all to Oxford for this week.”
From earning and receiving his GED while imprisoned, to his involvement with several grassroots efforts and larger institutions that encourage literacy and education, particularly those impacted by the justice system, through everything from songwriting workshops to continued education courses to certification and trade programs, the keynote address spotlighted Jelly Roll’s remarkable journey and his continued dedication to empowering young people through education.
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Author: Al Denté
Photo: 7EVENSIQS