Demi Lovato Tackling Girl-To-Girl Bullying, One 'Mean' Girl At A Time

NEW YORK — Demi Lovato surprised freshmen at the Young Women's Leadership School in East Harlem Thursday, when she turned up during their "Drama Free School Year" anti-bullying assembly.

The 20-year-old "X Factor" judge joined up with Secret to inspire students to "gang up for good" against girl-to-girl bullying. Lovato is now the deodorant brand's "Mean Stinks" Ambassador.

"I had a personal experience with bullying. I actually ended up leaving middle school because I had dealt with really crazy verbal harassment that I just couldn't take anymore," Lovato told at the school. "I didn't really have anybody to look up to that was raising the awareness in the public spotlight, so I want to be that role model for other young people."

During the event, Lovato shared her story with the all-girl student body and even gave some helpful hints on how they could inspire change among their classmates and friends. "Demi said to turn something negative into a positive, like how she turned her bullying into her successful music career," 14-year-old Min Liang said.

Superfan Sofia Sanchez also took Lovato's advice to heart, explaining it's not just the singer's words that she relates to.

"Her music is, like, really inspiring because it tells her story and she's been through a lot, so her music shows that," Sanchez said. "You should never stoop down to a bully's level, and be strong and don't be afraid to be yourself."

Lovato, who took home her first Moonman at this year's VMAs after her "Skyscraper" won Best Video With a Message, said two wrongs don't make a right. Instead of retaliating against a bully, she encouraged young people to channel their energy into more positive outlets like school work or pursuing their dreams.

"I just want them to know that they're strong and that they can get through it," Lovato added. "They're beautiful and no matter what other people say about them, they're worth it and you can get through it; I did myself."

What do think of Demi taking on girl-to-girl bullying? Share your thoughts in the comments.