Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
SOUTH African screen legend and entrepreneur Connie Ferguson, is set to grace the Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025 pageant as guest of honour and judge, adding a star-studded touch to the glamorous event scheduled for this Saturday, at the Harare Hippodrome.
Best known for her iconic roles in Generations and The Queen, Ferguson has become a household name across Africa, celebrated for her stellar acting, business acumen and commitment to women’s empowerment. She will join a panel of six distinguished judges in selecting Zimbabwe’s representative for the global Miss Universe stage.
Joining Ferguson on the judging panel are Roseanna Hall, Miss Zimbabwe-Diaspora 2017; George Nheweyembwa — Pan-African executive banker; Brooke Bruk-Jackson — Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2023; Paloma Mlunjwana — award-winning luxury travel blogger and content creator; Tsungai Makwanya — former international supermodel; and Zak Hawa — renowned business executive.
Miss Universe Zimbabwe national director, Tendai Hunda, said Ferguson’s inclusion reflects the pageant’s commitment to excellence and continental relevance.
“Connie Ferguson is a legendary South African actress, producer and entrepreneur whose career spans more than two decades. From her unforgettable portrayal of Karabo Moroka to producing hits like The Queen and Kings of Joburg, she’s not only a television icon but a symbol of African excellence,” said Hunda.
“Through Ferguson Films, Connie Brands and the Ferguson Foundation, she empowers communities and women across Africa. Her presence as a judge will elevate the prestige of the pageant.”
Hunda revealed that the full panel of judges will be in Harare by Friday for a special pre-show and preliminary judging.
“Some judges have already arrived, and the rest are expected by tomorrow. We’re hosting a pre-show on Friday night where judges will deliberate and select their top three, to be revealed during Saturday’s live finale,” she said.
This year’s show promises a dynamic two-hour spectacle, featuring live performances by Tammy Moyo and Enzo Ishall, alongside vibrant runway moments.
“The energy at rehearsals has been electrifying. Our finalists have been trained and equipped with all the tools they need to shine. It’s going to be a spectacular event,” added Hunda.
Television personalities, Arthur Evans and Becky K, will serve as co-hosts for the evening, bringing their experience and charisma to the national stage.
Taking to the ramp will be Onesimo Nkomo, Samkele Sukoluhle Dhlamini, Charmaine Emmanuel, Chiedza Mhosva, Brenda Kadewe, Rumbidzai Muzopa, Annie-Grace Mutambu, Talic Magaiza and Lyshanda Moyo. These women include town planners, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, fashion models and students.
Uniquely, this year’s pageant has opened doors to married women and mothers, a first in Zimbabwe’s pageantry history. Among them are Onesimo Nkomo, a mother based in Bulawayo, and Chiedza Mhosva, Miss World Zimbabwe 2017, who is also married. Lyshanda Moyo is reportedly engaged.
Also returning to the runway are Annie-Grace Mutambu (Miss Zimbabwe 2015) and Mhosva, both of whom bring pageant experience and renewed purpose to the competition.
