“I Traveled Around the World and Had a Great Modeling Career” Melania Trump’s Journey to Wealth and Fame
SOURCE: MEGA
Melania Trump, former First Lady of the United States, married one of the wealthiest men in the country, former President Donald Trump. While many might assume she gained her wealth after their 2005 marriage, Melania had already built a substantial fortune through her own efforts.
Before meeting her husband, the Slovenian-American former First Lady was a successful supermodel and designer. According to Nicki Swift, her family instilled in her a drive to seize opportunities. Born in Slovenia, Melania grew up without financial worries.
Her father, Viktor Knavs, was rumored to have connections with one of the communist parties. As reported by The New York Times, “There were clear benefits to being a member of the Communist Party, to which only a tiny percentage of Slovenians belonged.” Meanwhile, Melania enjoyed a thriving modeling career, standing confidently in front of the camera.
Reflecting on her career, she stated, “I traveled around the world and had a great modeling career.” Melania began her fashion modeling journey at 18, working from Milan to Paris. She collaborated with numerous renowned photographers, including Patrick Demarchelier. In an interview with TIME Magazine, she emphasized the significance of America in her life, saying,
“I loved my work, and as a young entrepreneur, I wanted to follow my dream to a place where freedom and opportunity were in abundance. So of course, I came here. Living and working in America was a true blessing.” However, moving to America presented challenges, including adapting to a new environment where younger models competed for the same opportunities.
Melania strategically attended auditions for roles that underage competitors couldn’t vie for, demonstrating her commitment and effort. Her rise to the A-list included ventures onto the silver screen and dating Donald Trump, which also brought her advantages. Melania’s modeling career flourished, landing significant deals, such as an endorsement with the brand Levi’s.
Following her marriage to Donald, she became the godmother of the Miami-based 93,502-ton cruise ship, the Norwegian Jewel. As First Lady, Melania set aside her career to take on traditional responsibilities. Despite this, she maintains a $50 million net worth, amassed from her modeling career, her now-discontinued affordable jewelry line, and various commercial ventures.
While her marriage to Donald Trump undoubtedly boosted her profile, Melania has always been a formidable businesswoman. From modeling assignments to her caviar skincare line, and securing rights to her images, she is recognized as one of the wealthiest wives of an American president.
