Melania Trump: From Small-Town Roots to First Lady
Melania Trump has long been a figure of intrigue, admired for her quiet composure and deeply private nature. Recent interest in her early modeling years has renewed fascination with her journey—from a small-town girl in Yugoslavia to First Lady of the United States.
Born Melanija Knavs in 1970 in Novo Mesto, she grew up in Sevnica, a modest industrial town. Her father, Viktor, worked as a car dealer, while her mother, Amalija, was a patternmaker. Teachers recall her as polite, graceful, and ambitious, qualities that set her apart even in childhood.
Her modeling career began at age 16 when photographer Stane Jerko discovered her. She quickly blossomed into a confident model, securing opportunities in Milan and Paris. Along the way, she mastered five languages and developed the poise that would later define her public persona.