News 12 is shining a light on sneaker culture, and we begin at UP NYC - a shop in Mott Haven, owned by the Bronx's very own Fat Joe.

Employees at UP NYC say sneakers aren't just a shoe. They say it's a fashion statement, it's historic and it's a community.

The famous Bronx rapper Fat Joe opened up UP NYC back in 2016 in Washington Heights.

Since then, it has expanded to three locations, including the Mott Haven location.

Ruby Lassi, a member of the team, says they bring in the hottest new brands on the market, but they also continue to give back to the community.

Inside the shop is a classroom, where free classes are hosted for the community to provide them with resources.

"Next month, we will be running a program where we're teaching you how to do a resume and a cover letter so that when we get a new job ready." said Lassi.