Special Moment

Melania Trump opens up about 'challenging times' in heartfelt message — Her personal journey

"I don’t always agree with what my husband is saying or doing, and that’s OK," she recently said.

APRIL 4, 2025 5:49 PM EDTAPR 4, 2025, 5:49 PM EDT

In a heartfelt speech at the International Women of Courage Awards, First Lady Melania Trump shared a glimpse of her personal journey and reflected on the strength she has found. Speaking to the audience and honorees, Melania highlighted the transformative power of love in shaping lives and communities.

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The event recognized extraordinary women from across the globe for their acts of courage, activism, and perseverance. In her remarks, Melania emphasized the importance of love as a guiding force, stating, "These extraordinary women illuminate the transformative power of love in shaping our world."

First lady Melania Trump delivers remarks during the International Women of Courage Award ceremony — Melania delivered some remarks at the International Women of Courage Award Ceremony

"Their journeys remind us that true courage is born from a deep commitment to others, showing that love fuels the call for justice," she said on stage. The International Women of Courage Awards, now in its 19th year, honors women who have shown exceptional strength and leadership, often at great personal risk and sacrifice.

During the ceremony, Melania described courage as "a strength that is based in love" and shared that she had drawn on love as a source of strength during her own "challenging moments."

Melania Trumpo alongside Henriette Da and Marco Rubio — Melania discussed some of her personal experiences and shed a light on her journey in her speech

"I have harnessed the power of love as a source of strength during challenging times," the First Lady explained. "Love has inspired me to embrace forgiveness, nurture empathy, and exhibit bravery in the face of unforeseen obstacles."

This year marked Melania's fifth appearance at the prestigious event, a tradition she upheld during her husband's first term as president. Standing alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio, she helped honor the award recipients.

Melania Trump, Namini Wijedasa, and Marco Rubio — Melania and Marco Rubio recognized various notorious women, including Namini Wijedasa

As Melania continues to navigate her role as First Lady, her speech reflected her evolving position in public life. Her solo appearance at the ceremony echoed her January declaration that she plans to "stand on her own two feet" during her husband’s second term.

In a recent Fox News interview, she expressed her independent perspective: “I have my own thoughts, I have my own yes and no. I don’t always agree with what my husband is saying or doing, and that’s OK.”