The gorgeous Australian model, actor and influencer helps celebrate our 11th Birthday in style with this outstanding MAXIM cover debut…
Magnificent photo shoot, Jess, congrats on your first MAXIM cover. How do you feel?
I’m truly honoured. I feel so lucky to be part of a group of women who have graced the cover before, such as Margot Robbie and Candace Swanepoel, who are two of my favourite cover girls and role models and so many other inspirational, iconic women.
What did you love most about this shoot?
I grew up in the Hunter Valley, north of Sydney in NSW, and I spent a lot of time in the outdoors and near the ocean — this brought back so many wonderful memories. I love shooting on location and especially on the beach and walking on the sand — what’s not to love about calling this work?
Agreed, and you look stunning. What do you think is the sexiest thing about you?
Thank you for the compliment! I think my sense of humour is my sexiest trait. I love to laugh at myself and situations I find myself in. I feel sexiest when I’m my natural self, no make-up and just lounging around at home being me, goofing about and enjoying my day.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I would say I had a typical Aussie upbringing — lots of time spent enjoying the outdoors, family BBQs etc… I am one of two girls and I am very close to my parents who visit me in Sydney often. I thank my mum and dad for instilling old fashioned family values in my sister and I — kindness, treating people with respect and humility.
How did you get into modelling?
It was pure chance that I began modelling. I’ve always liked to express myself creatively and being photographed, taking on a different persona, seems very natural for me. Also, these days, with the popularity of social media and platforms such as Instagram, it’s much easier to showcase your work.
You’re also an actor — tell us more about this side of your career.
I’ve taken singing and acting lessons for years, so performing has always been my passion since I was a little girl. I loved playing dress ups and creating characters and performing in front of anyone who would watch — haha! I’ve studied with various acting coaches and I’m always looking to further hone my skills. So far I’ve been featured in several short films and advertising campaigns and I’m always exploring new opportunities.
What would people be most surprised to know about you?
There are a few things about me that could surprise people. I was once in a rock band and I’m a massive Marvel fan! I’m definitely a Netflix and chill girl.
What are the pros and cons of being an Influencer?
The pros are that the Instagram platform provides great exposure and opportunites. I’ve been so blessed to generate a lot of work via being an influencer. The cons are attracting the “wrong” type of attention where people assume your public persona is the real you. I can assure you that in my case it’s definitely my public face and I’m completely different away from the camera.
You have a huge social media following. How do you keep your audience coming back for more?
I’m grateful for my followers and I hope that my content entertains and perhaps also inspires them. I come from humble beginnings and always had a dream to entertain, so by following my journey I hope that other women out there feel inspired and that anything is possible if you work hard.
What’s the weirdest thing someone has sent you via social media?
So many crazy messages, where do I begin? I’ve had marriage proposals, lots of indecent proposals and all sorts of strange messages. At the end of the day I just have a laugh, really. It can be quite entertaining and I never take it seriously. Of course, if something feels too uncomfortable I love the block feature!
What’s one thing men should always know about women?
Treat us with respect and kindness. We love to be appreciated for who we are and how we can contribute to the relationship. Of course, we do love to occasionally be pampered, but it really is the little things that count.
Describe your ideal date?
A nice dinner, just chatting about our day. Then snuggling on the couch and watching a good movie with lots of popcorn. Something simple.
It’s our 11th birthday this month. Besides this amazing cover photo shoot, what other present would you get MAXIM, if you had to?
Haha, how about I purchase a lifetime subscription? I’m a big fan of your work!
Aw, shucks! What’s the best birthday present you’ve ever been given?
My family once organised a big surprise birthday party for me. It was such an amazing birthday and I will always remember it.
What’s next for you? Any exciting projects on the horizon you can share with us?
I have an exciting project I’ve been working on, called Cobra City, with a director friend of mine Daniel Sabouné. He just previewed the sizzle reel to several producton companies in L.A. and we’re planning a trip over there soon. I also have another project I’m bursting to tell everyone about, but I’ve been sworn to secrecy for now. As soon as I can I will definitely share it wth you — so, watch this space!
Finally, as we celebrate a decade of MAXIM, what do you hope to achieve in the next 10 years of your life?
I want to keep learning, keep evolving in my career, and as a woman, and I want to be doing what gives me fulfillment and a purpose in life. Most of all, I just want to enjoy this next decade being happy in my personal life and within myself. ■
STATUS UPDATE
NAME: Jessica Ferguson
BORN: January 9
HOME TOWN: Branxton NSW
CURRENTLY LIVES: Sydney NSW
FIVE WORD SELF-DESCRIPTION: “Grateful, blessed, inspired, motivated, happy.”
HOBBIES: “Anything active and outdoors.”
BEST ADVICE: “Always follow your dreams, believe in yourself and never give up. If you fall or make a mistake, pick yourself up and keep going.”
LIFE MOTTO: “Aim for the impossible and anything can be possible!”
INSTAGRAM: @jessica__ferguson__
Photography by NEIL DIXON
Interview by SANTI PINTADO
Hair by Sarah Emilia
Make-up by Alyssa Adoncello
For the full article grab the August 2022 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
