Targeted marketing: Avon Voices announces first round of con

The finalists will be selected by a combination of online public voting and renowned 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., breakthrough, Grammy-nominated female percussionist; David Pack, Grammy award-winning singer/composer and music producer; Diego Torres, Grammy nominated singer/composer; Ivete Sangalo, Brazils biggest pop star; and Maia, Colombian singing star.

Since December 1, 2010, Avon Voices has invited women from around the world to join a global movement through music in celebration of the companys 125th Anniversary. This announcement of the global Contenders on the 100th Anniversary of International Womens Day, is a testament to a day in which every corner of the globe celebrates the special achievements of women.

"Wed like to thank the nearly one million people from around the world who have visited Avon Voices," said Joe Billone, Vice President, Global Communications for Avon Products, Inc. "It is thrilling to see this global community connecting women from around the world - from Brazil to Beijing, London to Los Angeles – to engage with one another around their common passion for music. We are overwhelmed by the level of talent showcased in the submission phase and congratulate our Round One Contenders."

Starting in late March, Avon Voices will fly these Round One Contenders to one of four destinations around the world - Hong Kong, Rio de Janeiro, Paris and Nashville - to record their professional performance videos that will be featured in subsequent rounds of voting. All contenders will also receive Avon makeovers by a team of professional makeup artists.