Estelle, singer of the #1 international hit “American Boy” featuring Kanye West, has been nominated as BET Best New Artist and for the MTV Best UK Video. Estelle recently had a party at the Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood to celebrate her chart topping success. And CGG was there to talk to the edgy gal with the gorgeous voice!

Estelle is one of eight children, born in west London, who grew up to be a major success story. We asked her what she would say to teens who aspire to do something big. She replied, "Follow your heart and figure out who you are. Once you figure out that, everything else comes easy and follows into position."

When CGG asked Estelle what causes she is passionate about, she told CGG about her involvement with Virgin Unite, which has a goal to impact the economy through social and environmental issues.

“I think it’s great,” Estelle said. “I also work with charities in South Africa.” One of the programs she is involved with is Women on the Move, which is a program designed to empower women by providing them with a college education through peer to peer mentorship programs. Estelle said that Women on the Move “provide resources to get women prepared and educated.” This program also teaches women about HIV/AIDS prevention. Another organization Estelle has supported in America is the Candie's Foundation, which educates today's youth about the consequences of teen pregnancy.

Major congrats to this lovely international sensation!

Contributed by CGG Youth Reporter Fred Scarf