South London rappers and entrepreneurs Krept & Konan yesterday (6 February) joined Lambeth mayor John-Paul Ennis as guests at a motivational all-school assembly in Brixton’s Ark Evelyn Grace Academy.
And the UK hip hop pioneers today announced the release of their album Young Kingz II, which, they say, “is more than just an album – it’s a reflection of everything we’ve been through and where we’re at now – it’s a full circle moment for us. This album is all about growth”.
Young Kingz II recalls their 2013 breakout mixtape Young Kingz – the highest-charting album by an unsigned act.
They say the new album chronicles life-defining moments of their journey since then and is is a deeply personal project, recorded largely in Jamaica to honour their heritage.
On independent label Play Dirty, the focus track Kilimanjaro features Nigerian superstar Oxlade.
The Brixton assembly encouraged students to become future leaders in their communities.
They were asked to reflect on what their next steps towards their goals could be and also learnt about the importance of mindset and motivation.
John-Paul Ennis, 27, the youngest mayor in Lambeth’s history, highlighted the importance of leadership, ambition, and community impact.
“Each and every one of you have power, it’s up to you how you use it,” he said.
The special assembly was a timely reminder and boost for the academy’s 400-plus students – mock examinations for year 11 are currently under way.
The school said the assembly reinforced its commitment to empower students to be “the voice of their future” by giving them direct access to influential figures who make positive contributions to the community.
“I’m pleased that our students got the opportunity to hear from successful individuals who come from the local area and embody our school values: ambition, professionalism, perseverance, integrity and community,” said principal Una Sookun.
After the assembly, students nominated by staff met and spoke with the mayor, motivational speaker Richard Asomugha and Krept & Konan. Some students had the opportunity to showcase their musical talents.
Ark Evelyn Grace is part of the Ark multi-academy trust of 39 schools in London, Birmingham, Hastings and Portsmouth.
