Sam Smith wants to be an international “voice for gay youth”.

The ‘Lay Me Down’ hitmaker – who came out to fans last year – wants to help people around the world who may be struggling with their sexuality and has set up a foundation to promote gay rights around the world.

Speaking to French magazine TÊTU, he said: “I would like to become a voice for gay youth in difficulty around the world. I just created a foundation.”

Sam – who currently can’t speak after having voice corrective surgery – also admitted he likes the fact that homophobic people can be fans of his album ‘In The Lonely Hour’ and have no idea he is homosexual.

The 23-year-old singer added:”I like the idea that there may have homophobic guys who listen to my record and they have no clue that I’m gay!”

Sam has previously opened up on his experiences of being a gay man and revealed he has been the victim of violence because of sexuality.

He previously said: “When I moved to London I got punched in the neck walking back from work. It was definitely homophobic.

“I was on the phone speaking quite loudly and had pink earphones on so it was pretty clear I was gay.”