Jelly Roll Rocks Oxford: From ‘Beautifully Broken’ to Globally Honored
Jelly Roll just added another jewel to his already glittering crown—this time, not for music, but for changing lives through literacy. At the 2025 World Literacy Summit in Oxford, England, the Southern rap-rock phenom was honored with the Global Literacy Award, one of the highest accolades in the world for literacy advocacy.
The award, given for his “global influence on literacy,” recognized Jelly Roll’s dedication to uplifting underserved communities, particularly within the justice system. But the moment didn’t stop at the trophy. Jelly Roll also served as the keynote speaker, delivering an emotional address titled “The Journey of a Little Boy from Broken to ‘Beautifully Broken’.”
In a voice that cracked with raw sincerity, Jelly shared his personal journey from incarceration to international stardom, highlighting how education—and particularly literacy—played a pivotal role in his transformation. His heartfelt message focused on improving foundational literacy among youth offenders, advocating for structured educational programs in correctional facilities to offer second chances and real change.
“Too many kids in the system don’t even get the basics,” he told a packed room of educators, policymakers, and global literacy champions. “If we want to change the outcome, we have to change the opportunity.”
The crowd at Oxford gave him a standing ovation. A once-unlikely voice in the halls of academia, Jelly Roll now stands shoulder to shoulder with some of the most respected figures in global education reform.
From Nashville stages to the halls of Oxford, Jelly Roll’s journey proves that no matter how broken the beginning, the ending can still be beautiful. His recognition at the World Literacy Summit is not just a win for him—it’s a victory for every young person still fighting to be seen, heard, and educated.
