Miley Cyrus used to put herself under pressure to "save" the world.

The 33-year-old pop star was desperate to change the world during her younger years - but Miley has come to realise that real, meaningful change takes patience.

The singer told Wonderland Magazine: "I used to put a huge amount of pressure on myself to use my platform to 'save' the world, and over time, I realised that that is not actually how change happens.

"Change happens when everybody does their part. I am dedicated to keeping my side of the street clean and using the stage I stand on to make compassion look inspiring, because motivation is contagious."

Miley acknowledges that some people are "scared" of getting involved in quasi-political causes. However, the pop star has encouraged people to influence change how they see fit.

She said: "Right now there's so much judgment that I think people are scared of getting involved unless they know exactly the right thing to say or do. But I don't really believe there's one right way. Do what is in your power."

Miley established the Happy Hippie Foundation, a non-profit that focuses on youth homelessness, the LGBTQ community, and other vulnerable populations, in 2014.

Asked what drove her to establish the foundation, Miley explained: "Homelessness is all around us. Living in Los Angeles, it's impossible not to see it. Every day this city reminds me that there is still so much work to be done.

"Supporting LGBTQ youth also comes from my own identification and being a part of that community myself. Sometimes people need resources, sometimes they need community, and sometimes they just need someone to remind them they belong. Everyone deserves that."

Miley also shared her long-term hopes for the foundation.

She said: "We're still young, with big dreams.

"My deepest hope is to honour my mother and my grandmother through the work we do. Right now we're focused on the Downtown Women's Center in Los Angeles, where my mom and I helped lead a major redesign of the spaces. We updated them with new furniture that provides dignity, and comfort for the thousands of people who use the centre every year.

"I want to help create a home, somewhere with soul. Not only providing basic needs but beautiful spaces that remind people they're worthy of beautiful things."