Melania Trump

Melania Trump, born Melanija Knavs, is a Slovenian-American businesswoman, former model, and the 45th First Lady of the United States. Known for her elegance and poise, she became the first naturalized U.S. citizen to serve as First Lady, bringing a unique perspective to the role. During her tenure, she focused on initiatives like the Be Best campaign, which promoted children's well-being and addressed issues such as cyberbullying and opioid abuse. Beyond her time in the White House, Melania is recognized for her work in fashion, business, and philanthropy, as well as her influence as a global public figure.

Melania Trump’s early life in Slovenia shaped her values and ambition, leading her to a successful international career.

• Born Melanija Knavs on April 26, 1970, in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, which was then part of Yugoslavia.
• Showed an early interest in design and fashion, influenced by her mother’s work in the clothing industry, which fostered her eventual modeling career.
• Attended the Secondary School of Design and Photography in Ljubljana, Slovenia, where she studied art and design, and later briefly enrolled at the University of Ljubljana to study architecture and design before pursuing modeling full-time.
• Began her modeling career at the age of 16, signing with a modeling agency in Milan and working internationally in cities like Paris and New York.
• Moved to New York City in 1996, where she gained recognition as a model, appearing in high-profile campaigns and fashion magazines, solidifying her reputation in the industry.
• Became a U.S. citizen in 2006, embracing her new life in America while maintaining pride in her Slovenian roots.

Melania Trump’s family relationships and values have played a central role in her life, shaping her priorities and public persona.

• Born to Amalija, a patternmaker, and Viktor Knavs, a car dealer and member of the Communist Party.
• Married Donald Trump in 2005 in a high-profile ceremony attended by celebrities and dignitaries, marking the start of her role as a public figure in the United States.
• Mother to Barron Trump, born in 2006, whom she has described as her greatest pride and priority, often emphasizing her hands-on approach to parenting.
• Maintains a close relationship with her parents, Viktor and Amalija Knavs, who relocated to the United States and are often seen accompanying her at public events.