About

She is best known as the co-founder of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, one of the largest charitable organizations in the world. Born on August 15, 1964, in Dallas, Texas, Melinda attended Duke University, where she earned degrees in computer science and economics. After graduating, she started working at Microsoft in 1987 and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a highly respected leader in the company. In 1994, Melinda met Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft, and they got married in 1994. Together, they have three children. In 2000, the couple co-founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation with the goal of improving health care, reducing poverty, and expanding educational opportunities globally. The foundation has since become a major force in philanthropy, with an endowment of over $40 billion, and has funded numerous projects aimed at combating diseases, improving sanitation, and promoting gender equality. Melinda Gates has been actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the foundation and has played a crucial role in shaping its strategies and initiatives. She has championed women's empowerment and family planning, advocating for access to contraceptives and reproductive health services worldwide. Additionally, she has worked to improve educational opportunities for women and girls, particularly in the field of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Beyond her philanthropic work, Melinda is also a published author and public speaker. In her book, "The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World," she explores the importance of women's empowerment and shares stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed by gender equality initiatives. Melinda Gates has received numerous accolades for her philanthropic efforts, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Forbes "Most Powerful Women" list. She continues to be active in advocating for social and healthcare issues and remains committed to using her resources and influence to make a positive impact on the world.