The World’s Wealthiest Women: Visionaries of Success and Philanthropy
The world’s richest women have amassed fortunes through industries as diverse as beauty, retail, steel, and philanthropy. Their stories are not only tales of immense wealth but also lessons in leadership, vision, and resilience. According to Forbes' 2024 billionaires list, women make up 13.3% of the global billionaire population, with 369 women among 2,781 individuals. This list celebrates the achievements of the top six richest women globally, delving into their careers, legacies, and philanthropic efforts.
1. Françoise Bettencourt Meyers: The Billion-Dollar Beauty Mogul
Net Worth: $99.5 billion
Source of Wealth: L’Oréal
Citizenship: France
Françoise Bettencourt Meyers is the world’s wealthiest woman, boasting a net worth of $99.5 billion. As the granddaughter of Eugène Schueller, founder of L’Oréal, Françoise inherited her fortune after the death of her mother, Liliane Bettencourt, in 2017. Today, she and her family control 33% of the beauty giant, making her a cornerstone of the global cosmetics industry.
Her influence extends beyond business. She chairs the Bettencourt Schueller Foundation, which champions the arts, sciences, and social inclusion. Her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to L’Oréal’s legacy ensure its continued success in a competitive market. Françoise is also an accomplished author, having penned biblical commentaries, showcasing her intellectual depth alongside her business acumen.
2. Alice Walton: A Visionary in Art and Philanthropy
Net Worth: $72.3 billion
Source of Wealth: Walmart
Citizenship: United States
Alice Walton, the second wealthiest woman globally, holds a $72.3 billion fortune derived from her family’s Walmart empire. While her brothers manage the retail behemoth, Alice has dedicated her life to arts and education.
She established the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Arkansas, offering a platform for underrepresented artists. The museum reflects her passion for preserving and promoting American heritage.
In 2021, Alice founded the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine, merging her interests in wellness and education. Her philanthropic efforts, coupled with her financial legacy, position her as a cultural innovator and a force for change.
3. Julia Koch: The Quiet Power Behind Koch Industries
Net Worth: $64.3 billion
Source of Wealth: Koch Industries
Citizenship: United States
Julia Koch inherited a 42% stake in Koch Industries after her husband, David Koch, passed away in 2019. With a net worth of $64.3 billion, she is one of the most influential figures in the industrial sector.
Koch Industries, a conglomerate with interests in energy, chemicals, and manufacturing, is the second-largest privately held company in the U.S. Julia serves as the president of the David H. Koch Foundation, channeling funds into health, education, and the arts.
Julia’s background in fashion, where she worked alongside designer Adolfo Sardiña, provided her with a unique perspective that informs her philanthropic and leadership endeavors.
4. Jacqueline Mars: Sweet Success in Confectionery
Net Worth: $38.5 billion
Source of Wealth: Mars Inc.
Citizenship: United States
Jacqueline Mars, with a net worth of $38.5 billion, is synonymous with sweet success. She owns a 30% stake in Mars Incorporated, the confectionery empire behind M&Ms, Snickers, and Skittles.
Her grandfather, Franklin Clarence Mars, founded the company, and Jacqueline spent over two decades contributing to its growth. She served on its board until 2016, leaving an indelible mark on its global strategy.
In addition to her business accomplishments, Jacqueline is a dedicated philanthropist, supporting causes in education, health, and environmental sustainability. Her legacy is as vibrant as the candies her company produces.
5. MacKenzie Scott: Redefining Philanthropy
Net Worth: $35.6 billion
Source of Wealth: Amazon
Citizenship: United States
MacKenzie Scott is a trailblazer in philanthropy with a net worth of $35.6 billion. She gained her fortune after divorcing Amazon founder Jeff Bezos in 2019, receiving a 4% stake in the company.
Unlike many billionaires, Scott is committed to giving her wealth away. She has donated over $17 billion to date, funding education, social justice, and public health initiatives. Her approach to philanthropy, characterized by unrestricted grants, sets her apart, as organizations receive transformative donations with no strings attached.
Scott’s generosity has made her one of the most admired figures globally, proving that wealth can be a powerful tool for good.
6. Savitri Jindal: The Steel Empress of India
Net Worth: $33.5 billion
Source of Wealth: Steel
Citizenship: India
Savitri Jindal, with a fortune of $33.5 billion, is India’s richest woman. As chairperson of the Jindal Group, she oversees operations spanning steel, power, cement, and infrastructure.
Following the untimely death of her husband, O.P. Jindal, in 2005, Savitri stepped into a leadership role, ensuring the company’s continued growth. The Jindal Group is now managed by her four sons, each overseeing different verticals.
Savitri is also a politician, having served in the Haryana Legislative Assembly. Her dual influence in business and politics underscores her role as a transformative leader in India’s industrial and social sectors.
Related: India’s Richest: Wealth Reaches Record-Breaking $1.1 Trillion
Related: Who are Africa's wealthiest 2024?
The stories of these six extraordinary women highlight their diverse paths to success. From Françoise Bettencourt Meyers’ leadership in beauty to Savitri Jindal’s impact in steel, they embody resilience, vision, and philanthropy.
Each woman’s journey underscores a vital lesson: immense wealth can be paired with purpose. Whether through philanthropic efforts, cultural contributions, or industrial leadership, these women are not only the wealthiest but also among the most impactful figures globally.
