Hassan Mohammed, from Camberwell in south London, was stabbed twice in York Road, Southend, on 7 July.
A post-mortem examination showed he died from blood loss from stab wounds.
Tajwar Alam, 18, of Sleaford Road in Tottenham, has been charged with his murder and possessing a bladed instrument. He will appear before Southend Magistrates' Court on Monday.
Mr Mohammed's family said: "Hassan was a very friendly, caring person.
"He grew from a boy into a man and was a protector and best friend to his family.
"He was loved by all."
A youth of 17, from north London, is also due to appear in court charged with firearms offences and possessing cannabis with intent to supply.
A second 17-year-old, from Southend, remains in custody.
A student has been charged with murdering a 24-year-old man who was stabbed in Essex.