Connie Ferguson declares Zimbabwe her home

South African television star and businesswoman Connie Ferguson has expressed deep affection for Zimbabwe, calling the country her home and praising the outpouring of love she receives from Zimbabweans.

Ferguson was the guest of honour and a guest judge at the Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025 beauty pageant, marking her first time judging in Zimbabwe. She commended the pageant organisers for providing Zimbabwean women with a valuable platform to showcase their confidence, beauty, and talent.

"I would like to thank the organisers of this pageant for such a wonderful show. Most importantly, how they are giving women the platform to blossom, the opportunity to showcase their confidence and beauty," Ferguson said.

She described the contestants as not only stunning but also passionate and driven, with a genuine desire to serve the best interests of Zimbabwe.

"The girls gave us a torrid time not only because they are beautiful. They are all passionate, driven but, most importantly, they have a good heart. All of them just want to serve the good and best of Zimbabwe. Thank you for supporting them and let's rally behind them. Yes, we have a winner, but they are all winners to me," she added.

Ferguson said she will continue visiting Zimbabwe, describing the country and its people as warm and loving. "Zimbabwean people are full of love and this is like home," she said.

Born in Botswana, Ferguson shared that she has had a lifelong passion for modelling, having participated in South Africa's "Black Like Me" beauty contest after finishing her education.

She is best known for her iconic role as Karabo Moroka on the popular South African soap opera Generations, a show that cemented her status as a beloved television figure across Southern Africa.

Her presence at the Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant was a highlight of the event, inspiring many young women and shining a spotlight on Zimbabwe's vibrant beauty and talent.