Nicole Scherzinger to start music camp

Apr 23, 2010, 12:07 GMT

Nicole Scherzinger wants to start a music camp for disabled people.

The Pussycat Dolls singer has been inspired by her aunt, who has Down syndrome, to set up a project where she aims to teach people who are affected by the chromosomal disorder.

Nicole, 31, told Los Angeles' Talk Radio station: "I grew up with my aunt who is actually younger than me because my grandmother had her at an older age and she has Down syndrome

"She has always had a special place in my heart and is such a wonderful addition to our family.

"I used to tell my girls in the Pussycat Dolls that I would have my own musical camp or school where I would teach people with special disabilities or Down syndrome."

Nicole - who is currently competing on 'Dancing with the Stars' - hopes her camp will raise awareness of people with Down syndrome.

Nicole's boyfriend, Formula 1 racing champion Lewis Hamilton, has also been inspired by a disabled family member.

Lewis' brother Nicolas suffers from Cerebral Palsy and in his autobiography, 'My Story', Lewis wrote: "I only have to think of one person to keep me motivated and put a smile on my face, my brother Nicolas.

"I often try to imagine myself in Nic's position. I don't think I would be anywhere near as strong as him. There's so much to admire in him.

"So, whatever I am doing, I say to myself, 'If you think it's hard to do this, then think again.' "

Lewis has his own charity, the Lewis Hamilton Foundation, which focuses on improving the lives of children and young people in ill health or poverty across the world.