Spanish model and businesswoman Maria Jose Suarez has recalled meeting Donald Trump in Las Vegas while competing at the Miss Universe pageant 30 years ago.
Suarez was 21 years old when she met Trump, who had recently purchased the Miss Universe franchise before she represented Spain at the international event in 1996. She described the future United States president as a polite and professional figure who possessed a commanding presence and made himself noticed whenever he walked into a room.
According to Suarez, the contestants viewed Trump as the boss because he remained closely involved in monitoring everything happening throughout the competition. She said she experienced that period with a mixture of excitement and surprise, noting that she could never have imagined at the time that he would eventually serve as president of the United States.
Reflecting on three decades in the public eye, the Seville-born personality described the encounter as one of many anecdotes in a life filled with both wonderful and difficult moments.
Memoirs and television projects
Following the recent release of a memoir by her industry colleague Mar Flores, Suarez revealed that she is considering writing her own autobiography. She explained that 30 years in show business has provided ample material, adding that she would only publish a book if her personal experiences could help others facing similar situations find clarity or guidance.
Suarez is also preparing for the autumn television season, beginning her sixth consecutive season on the entertainment program El show de Bertin. She confirmed that she has departed the show Y ahora Sonsoles after two years, while expressing interest in joining the physical challenge show El Desafio.
Summer in Huelva and family life
The television presenter recently concluded her summer duties as an official tourism ambassador for Huelva, a coastal province in southwestern Spain. During the break, she traveled extensively across Spanish holiday destinations including Isla Canela, Punta Umbria, Mazagon, El Rompido, Marbella, and Ibiza alongside her son Elias, her three sisters, and close friends.
Her autumn schedule coincides with the start of the school year and football training on September 1, which also marks the ninth birthday of her son Elias. Suarez shared that her son has already lived in three different countries, which helped him develop into an outgoing, adaptable, and affectionate child with a strong personality.
Overcoming prejudice and managing business
Reflecting on her modeling career, Suarez stated that her physical appearance has always opened doors rather than closing them. However, she acknowledged that winning the Miss Spain title occasionally generated professional prejudice, requiring her to work harder to demonstrate her capabilities beyond her image.
She highlighted her work as a television host, debater, and entrepreneur, having founded and managed her own fashion company that employed a staff of more than 30 people.
Matriarchal upbringing and charitable work
Suarez attributed her work ethic and personal values to her upbringing in a strong matriarchal household in Seville. Raised alongside three sisters, she was primarily cared for by her grandmother, who became widowed at age 40 and took charge of the household while her parents worked.
She explained that her grandmother taught her the importance of family, hard work, and mutual support, principles she is now focused on passing down to her son.
In addition to her career, Suarez continues her involvement in charitable causes, having recently served as one of the prominent figures at the Marbella Cancer Gala. She noted a particular commitment to initiatives supporting children and mental health, calling for greater solidarity and empathy within society.
