Melania Trump set off from Slovenia as a teenager, charting a path toward a bustling modeling career in the United States, where she quickly rose to prominence in the New York modeling scene. Her flourishing modeling career took a pause when she crossed paths with Donald Trump, and upon welcoming their son Barron into the world, she prioritized motherhood above all.

Throughout her journey, Melania has always cherished her Slovenian roots. Even as a young child, Barron had a touch of a Slovenian accent, a testament to Melania’s dedication to her heritage. Her parents also relocated from Slovenia to be closer to her family. Sadly, Melania faced the loss of her beloved mother last year, but her father remains a strong presence in her life.
Despite her long-standing residence in the United States, Melania makes a concerted effort to preserve her cultural background and native tongue. During a visit to support victims of the catastrophic LA wildfires, the First Lady was seen comforting someone by speaking in Slovenian, earning widespread praise online.
The story of Melania Trump’s journey to becoming the First Lady of the United States twice is quite remarkable. Born as Melania Knauss on April 26, 1970, in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, her early years were spent in the quaint railway town of Sevnica.
Her father, Viktor Knauss, was a dedicated car mechanic and chauffeur, while her mother, Amalija, brought creativity to life as a pattern-maker at a clothing factory. Amalija’s love for fashion shone through as she spent countless hours designing clothes for Melania and her older sister, Ines.
“I was blessed with a beautiful family and a joyful childhood,” Melania once reflected. “My parents instilled in us values such as education, diligence, and the importance of family.”
The family lived in a humble home, though her parents held a significant presence in Sevnica. Melania pursued her education at a specialized high school for industrial design and photography. Then, at the age of 16, fate stepped in to alter her path, all thanks to a chance encounter.
Melania Trump’s Slovenian Heritage
Back in 1987, photographers seldom had the luxury of discovering fresh faces through the Internet. Instead, they often stumbled upon their subjects in the real world.
“At the entrance stairs, I noticed a young girl,” Stane Jerko, a fashion photographer, recounted. “She was tall, slim, with long hair. I introduced myself and explained my reasons for wanting to photograph her.”
At that time, Melania had her sights set on becoming an architect. However, this unexpected opportunity beckoned. Jerko believed she had something unique.
“Initially, she was quite shy and reserved,” Jerko recounted. “Uncertain about opening up to the camera. But she soon grasped the process and inquired, ‘Why are you adjusting the light constantly? Should I pose like this?’”
Melania embarked on her university studies in Ljubljana before pursuing her modeling dreams. In 1996, she ventured to New York City, residing in a shared apartment in Gramercy Park. At 26, older than most aspiring models, she took a gamble for her career aspirations.
Just two years later, she met Donald Trump, altering her life’s trajectory once more. After Donald became President of the United States, and Melania took on the role of First Lady, Viktor and Amalija could often be seen at the White House, including during her 2024 RNC speech in the Rose Garden.
Barron Trump’s Slovenian Speech
During that memorable speech, Melania expressed gratitude to her parents, acknowledging their hard work and sacrifices.
“My parents strove tirelessly to provide for our family and contribute to a nation that allows individuals to turn dreams into reality,” she stated.
“I want to take a moment to thank my mother and father for everything they’ve done for our family. It is because of you that I stand here today.”
Meanwhile, Viktor and Amalija embraced the joys of grandparenthood. According to Politico, Donald and Melania’s son, Barron, spent considerable time with his grandparents, leading him to speak Slovenian.
When Barron was young, he even spoke with a Slovenian accent. Videos of a toddler-aged Barron resurfaced after his father’s second Presidential election win. Entertainment Tonight showcased a video from 2009 when Barron, nearly three, expressed, “I like to play drums,” as Melania added, “He loves playing drums, so perhaps a birthday gift awaits?”
In another clip from a 2010 Larry King interview featuring his parents, a young Barron appeared in his father’s office, asserting, “I like my suitcase.”
Melania has consistently placed Barron’s well-being above all else. Her parents, too, prioritized involvement in Barron’s life. Politico once revealed that Melania’s parents were remarkably engaged and predicted their increased presence in the White House setting.
Grandmother’s Role in Barron’s Life
The New York Times reported that Melania’s parents divided their time between an apartment in Trump Tower, the Mar-a-Lago club in Florida, and a suite in the White House, once used by Mrs. Obama’s mother.
Tragically, on January 9, 2024, Melania announced the heart-breaking news that Amalija had passed away at 78.
Melania shared on X, formerly Twitter, “Amalija Knavs was a remarkable woman, consistently embodying grace, warmth, and dignity. Her devotion to her husband, daughters, grandson, and son-in-law was unwavering. Her absence is felt deeply, and her legacy will be honored and cherished.”
In a September Fox News interview, Melania opened up about her mother’s passing, describing Amalija’s profound bond with Barron. According to Melania, her mother moved to the U.S. specifically to be close to Barron.
“Her life in Slovenia was fulfilled,” Melania said. “However, once Barron was born, he became her focus. She was almost like a second mother, especially given my White House commitments. Their relationship was unparalleled,” Melania explained.
Praised for Comforting Wildfire Victim
Despite becoming deeply integrated into American life, Melania hasn’t abandoned her Slovenian heritage. Just recently, she honored her roots by speaking Slovenian.
During a visit to Los Angeles with Donald, meeting Governor Gavin Newsom to discuss rebuilding following devastating wildfires, a touching 30-second video emerged. Melania comforted a wildfire victim while conversing in Slovenian.
Social media has since praised Melania for her compassionate gesture and for embracing her native language in empathy.
“Witnessing Melania’s increased involvement is heartwarming,” commented one user, according to the Daily Mail.
Another noted, “Engaging with others in their own language fosters connection and empathy. Melania epitomizes the essence of an admirable First Lady.”
Yet another added: “First Lady Melania Trump speaks in her native tongue to console those affected by wildfires. Even in simple attire, her beauty and grace shine through.”
Melania’s tenure as First Lady has involved many impactful moments, though not without its challenges. For instance, during her first term, a particular incident attracted considerable criticism. She was photographed wearing a jacket with the controversial statement “I REALLY DON’T CARE, DO U?” during a visit to a migrant housing facility in Texas.
Reflections on the Jacket Incident
Stephanie Grisham, who once served in Melania’s office, detailed the incident in her book, I’ll Take Your Questions Now. During a time when Trump’s administration faced backlash for separating migrant children from families, Melania’s visit aimed to mend their image.
Despite their intentions, the program was ultimately scrapped. Upon Melania’s return from Texas, Donald was reportedly outraged over the jacket’s perceived insensitivity.
“He erupted in anger, questioning their actions,” Grisham recounted in her memoir, as noted by The Washington Post.
Later, Melania addressed the situation in a CNN interview.
“Clearly, the jacket wasn’t meant for the children,” she explained. “I wore it en route to and from the flight, directed at critics in the media.”