United Kingdom, Jan. 9 -- Idris Elba is determined to "make a difference for young people".

The 53-year-old actor was recently awarded a knighthood in the New Year Honours list "for services to young people", following his campaign against knife crime in the UK, and Idris is thrilled that his efforts have been recognised.

The London-born star told Extra: "I've worked, you know, trying to raise as much awareness about what young people are going through, especially in the UK and other parts of the world.

"It's a real honour to be recognised for that. Not for my acting work, but, you know, for trying to make a difference for young people."

Idris has already achieved a lot in his career, but he still has ambitions that he wants to fulfil...