Six South Africans in first round of Avon singing contest

The finalists will be selected by a combination of online public voting and judging panel of music industry leaders from around the world, including Fergie, six-time Grammy award winner; Diane Warren, legendary songwriter; Natasha Bedingfield, Grammy nominated singer/songwriter; Lea Salonga, Filipina singer and actress; Valeriya, Russian sensation; Delta Goodrem, Australian Artist of the Decade; Sheila E, Grammy-nominated female percussionist; David Pack, Grammy award-winning singer/composer and music producer; Diego Torres, Grammy nominated singer/composer; Ivete Sangalo, Brazil's biggest pop star; and Maia, Colombian singing star.

Support our team

Beginning 22 April 2011, the Round 1 professionally produced videos will be online, where viewers can vote for their favourites. From April through October, the search will be narrowed down four times by a combination of online public voting and judges' scores.

Write a song, download and support anti-violence campaign

Women and men may enter the Songwriting Competition. Write an original song that inspires or shares hope and optimism with the world. Simply submit a digital file and lyric sheet at (between 20 May and 1 July 2011.

Throughout the year, music by the judges and additional artists will be available for digital download in select countries. A percentage of the purchase price of all recordings will help advance the Avon Foundation for Women's global campaign to end violence against women and girls. To date, Avon global philanthropy has raised and awarded more than $30 million directed to domestic and gender violence awareness, education, direct services and prevention programs.

Go to www.avonvoices.com to vote or learn more about the competition.