Normani Kordei named American Cancer Society global ambassador

Fifth Harmony star Normani Kordei has been named a global ambassador for the American Cancer Society.

The singer has partnered with charity bosses to raise awareness about breast cancer screenings and HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccines, and the 20-year-old reveals the organization's work is something she can really relate to.

"I remember seeing my father shaving my mother's head in the bathroom after her chemo treatments; it was so traumatizing," she recalls of her own mom's battle with breast cancer several years ago. "My mom is my hero, and I wouldn't be the woman I am today without her."

"I am so committed to this fight," she continues. "I love the work the American Cancer Society does and being a global ambassador provides me an amazing platform to share my experience and story while growing up, support my grandfather who is currently undergoing treatment for prostate cancer, and honor the legacy of my Uncle Norman, whom I am named after and never met, having passed from lung cancer at the age of 33.

"Cancer has touched my life and the lives of those I love, and now I'm ready to help all that I can in the fight."

Through her partnership with the organization, Normani has had the chance to visit hospitals and meet with people suffering from various types of cancer.

"Being only 20, it was especially tough to watch kids who were struggling," she adds. "But it was truly memorable and inspiring to see their parents provide support. It was really emotional yet rewarding when a few of the parents came up to me with tears in their eyes saying that it has been a long time since they saw their kids smile. That experience set the course and the desire to do more."