(CNN) -- From a Chinese pop idol to a champion of ethnic minorities in China, singer Dadawa is a musician like no other. Dadawa, whose real name is Zhu Zheqin, was a student in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou when she won a TV talent competition in the early 1990s. But despite finding herself on the fast-track to pop stardom, she knew from a young age her life and musical career would take her away from the mainstream. "(Growing up) I always have my own idea. I imagine one day I will be traveler, travel all around the world," she says.
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Dadawa is a globally recognized Chinese singer
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Her music is inspired by ethnic minorities across China
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She is also a U.N. Goodwill Ambassador for China, promoting minority culture
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Zhu has recorded four albums as Dadawa since her 1995 debut, but she has also spent much of her time promoting the ethnic culture and music of China as a @placeholder