Rapper Kendrick Lamar dropped the album widely acclaimed as 2015's best and garnered 11 nominations for next month's Grammy Awards - but long before all that, he had a mentor.

And Lamar speaks on the importance of such guidance in "Pay It Forward," a PSA supporting the National Mentoring Partnership.

"Sometimes I reflect and think back," Lamar says in the video, posted Monday. "Where would I be if I didn't have the presence of an older acquaintance telling me what's right and what's wrong, telling me the pros and cons of every move I was about to make, telling me the best ways to plan success for my future?"

Lamar continues by detailing a recent visit with President Barack Obama at the White House. Mashable noted talking points included the inner cities and mentorship, "both being aware that mentoring saves lives."

BuzzFeed reported Lamar "had butterflies" during their meeting.

In the PSA, Lamar says paying it forward means giving guidance like he received.

"It's only right that I mentor a younger person with the same wisdom that was given to me," Lamar states. "If it helps the next kid become a better person in life, I will forever be aware of my influence and pay it forward."

Lamar closes the clip by encouraging others to do the same.

According to Billboard, organizations like NMP and Obama's My Brother's Keeper initiative provide opportunities to mentor.