Nationwide — A 24-year-old African American licensed pilot best known by his rap names, Young Mula and “Muleazy”, is going viral on TikTok for sharing a video after his successful flight landing, but critics are attacking his appearance, questioning his professionalism because of his locs and grill. Despite the backlash, many defended him, arguing that skills matter more than looks.



Young Mula, who is from Baton Rouge, Louisiana posted a video of himself walking through an airport in his work uniform, saying, “Another successful flight, glory be to God. Dealing with this career, you gotta be cautious, but most of all, you gotta stay prayed up.”

The video gained over 1.4 million views and 268,000 likes with many celebrating his achievements. “Protect this young man at all costs!!! This is what some don’t want to see. Congrats to you sir!!!” one commenter wrote, while another celebrated his look, saying, “Why are there no other pilots that look like you!!  I love it!!! Be blessed.”



However, the video later spread to X, where racist comments appeared, according to The Root. Critics questioned his professionalism, saying, “I’m sorry but it’s all about professionalism and appearance in a job/career here you’re literally holding the lives of others in your hands.”

Others made comments about his faith, saying, “Yea I prefer my pilots not let ‘god’ be the reason we land safely and spend less time ‘praying up’ and more time training, but what do I know.”

Despite the backlash, many defended the pilot, pointing out that appearance and race do not affect job performance. One person asked, “Who said dreds and grills impact your ability to fly a plane? Who defines professionalism?”