Most First Ladies champion causes that define their legacy—both during and after their time in the White House. Yet, for Melania Trump, the spotlight has often been quieter and more understated.
While she has largely stayed away from political headlines, Melania has still found powerful moments to make a meaningful impact. One such moment came recently at the Women of Courage Awards, where she delivered a heartfelt speech celebrating bravery and resilience.
At the event, Melania honored women who have overcome extraordinary challenges, sharing inspiring stories that highlight how true courage is often born from compassion and strength.
If you’re not familiar with the Women of Courage Awards, they honor remarkable female leaders from around the globe. These women are celebrated not just for their leadership, but for the personal courage they’ve demonstrated in their lives—often transforming entire communities through positive and lasting change.
This year’s event also recognized the role of the U.S. government, with President Trump’s ongoing support for girls and women on the international stage. Katrina Fotovat, a featured speaker, highlighted the government’s strong commitment to empowering women as a vital part of global security.
Among the inspiring honorees was Major Velena Iga from Papua New Guinea, who tirelessly works to protect women from violence in her country—creating safer communities for everyone.
Another powerful story came from South Sudan, where Zabib Musa Loro Bakhit founded an organization to fight forced marriage. Driven by her own childhood experiences, her work has already helped more than 50,000 survivors reclaim their lives.
Georgiana Pascu of Romania is a fierce advocate for the rights of disabled individuals who often face unfair treatment. She works tirelessly to equip communities with the tools and resources needed to create a more just and inclusive world.
Another remarkable story shared at the event was that of Amit Soussana, whose survival from captivity transformed her into a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring countless people worldwide.
In her remarks, Melania Trump spoke to the heart of the awards’ message—how love fuels the extraordinary courage women demonstrate every day. She emphasized that the same love that drives their advocacy also shines through their actions.
You can watch the ceremony and the First Lady’s inspiring speech in the video below: