Young Thug launches mentoring program at Skyview High School
On Friday, Young Thug made a commitment at Skyview High School to continue guiding youth down the right path.
The Grammy-winning Atlanta rapper, born Jeffrey Lamar Williams, returned to the charter school for his second major visit since his 2024 release from jail following a long-running and high-profile trial.
He visited the school for at-risk students in College Park to announce his mentorship program for the 2026-2027 academic year. He also donated $5,000 to sponsor Skyview’s back-to-school bash featuring food trucks, a mobile arcade, a board game tent and an inflatable obstacle course.
Young Thug told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution he’s using his success and influence to set an example.
“We’re kind of almost their parents to a certain extent, because they listen to what we say and what we do. When you get that type of power, you have to get involved and tell them the right thing,” the 34-year-old said.
“We could be anywhere doing anything we want, but this makes them feel loved,” he said.
‘It’s possible for them’
In October 2024, Young Thug was released from the Fulton County Jail after serving over two years upon pleading guilty to gun, drug and gang charges related to the extensive YSL gang and racketeering trial. Prosecutors alleged Young Stoner Life Records, his record label, was also the street gang Young Slime Life, which Young Thug’s defense denies.
The chart-topping artist known for his elastic vocals, zany rhyme schemes and flamboyant clothes was sentenced to time served and 15 years probation. He made his first public appearance at the school last August as part of his sentencing terms, which included a requirement to lead and participate in youth anti-gang and violence prevention programs.
Principal Shelley Leger appreciates the rapper making visits to campus.
“It shows consistency for the students and support doesn’t just come from inside the building or home,” she said.
Young Thug, who grew up near Cleveland Avenue and Jonesboro Road in southwest Atlanta, said he’s focused on turning his legal troubles into teachable moments for young people.
“The community where I’m from is right up the street, and the kids are right here where I’m from, too. These kids have so much against them, but they still come every day and just try. They got kids that kind of look like me when I was young, so I want to show them that it’s possible for them,” he said.
As a mentor, he plans to start by taking kids on field trips and for meals. He said he wants to teach them selflessness.
“Going to eat and having fun is cool, but learning will help them get much further in life. I want to raise these kids to go to another school, give themselves away and help somebody else,” he said.
During his recent afternoon visit, Young Thug led a question-and-answer session and took pictures with the students. The rapper discussed networking and gun violence prevention, and talked about how to overcome personal obstacles, persevere and resolve conflict.
He encouraged them to explore careers in entertainment beyond performing.
“Music can be a steppingstone, so don’t dedicate your life to just one thing,” he said.
Assistant principal Tyrell Walker, who leads Skyview’s male mentorship program on Fridays, said Young Thug’s involvement helps youth see the performer’s humanity and personal evolution.
“They only know him for rapping, but he can provide information to somebody else so they can become a better person,” Walker said. “He’s dealt with a lot of these stressors that these kids have dealt with, so he can help them get through some of those things. I’m hoping he can take some of them under his wing, because it takes a community to help these kids graduate.”
The rapper’s conversation with dozens of teens at the school lasted around 20 minutes and ended early because of outbursts from some of the energetic students. Others were inspired by Young Thug’s presence.
College Park resident Roger “Pnut” Miller enrolled at Skyview after Miller said he had problems with attendance and fighting at another school. Miller, who aspires to attend trade school to become an auto mechanic, said the rapper’s visit exceeded his expectations and motivates him to pursue his education.
“He did more than I expected. It makes people want to push and do better for themselves,” the 18-year-old said.
Young Thug also took a moment to commend teachers for their commitment to student success. He said their roles in the community are a necessity for personal development.
“Do it until you can’t no more. You are all the best and most important people in the world. You all have the grace of God, and it will be terrible if you just quit,” Young Thug said.