Melinda Gates steps away from the foundation she co-founded to focus on her own charity, spotlighting gender equality. Meanwhile, Bill Gates finds new companionship with Paula Hurd, and rumors swirl about Melinda’s love life following her split from Jon Du Pre.
Melinda Gates’ New Path
Melinda Gates has penned a powerful essay detailing her decision to leave the Bill Gates Foundation. She aims to launch her own charity, prioritizing gender equality.
Financial Settlement Revealed
At 59, the philanthropist disclosed her departure earlier this month, securing $12.5 billion in the process. This comes as part of her settlement with ex-husband Bill Gates.
Focus on Gender Equality
In a New York Times op-ed, Melinda highlighted her commitment to gender equality. She emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue globally.
Longstanding Advocacy
Melinda reflects on her 20 years advocating for women and girls. She notes the consistent pushback against discussing gender equality.
Addressing Inequity
She criticizes the shortsightedness of sidelining women’s issues. Melinda plans to support organizations fighting for women’s rights more aggressively.
Growing Threats to Women’s Rights
She expressed concerns about the erosion of women’s freedoms. Melinda pointed to the end of Roe v. Wade as a significant setback.
Granddaughter’s Future
Melinda fears her granddaughter might face fewer rights than she had. This prospect fuels her determination to fight for women’s rights.
New Charity’s Ambitious Plans
Her new charity will donate $1 billion to key women’s rights organizations. These include the National Women’s Law Center and the Center for Reproductive Rights.
Empowering Grant Recipients
Melinda has also provided 12 individuals with $20 million each for their initiatives. Notable recipients include Jacinda Ardern and Shabana Basij-Rasikh.
Insights on New Ventures
She looks forward to seeing the impact of these diverse funding approaches. Melinda believes these new perspectives will unlock significant results.
End of a Billionaire Partnership
At their peak, the Gates were worth $130 billion. Their marriage ended in August 2021, with Melinda citing irreparable differences.
World’s Largest Private Foundation
The Gates Foundation remains the largest private charitable foundation. Its endowment stood at $75.2 billion as of December 2023.
Early Days and Family
Bill and Melinda met in 1987, the same year he became the youngest billionaire. They married in 1994 in Hawaii and have three children: Jennifer, Rory, and Phoebe.
Divorce and Controversy
Their divorce followed rumors of Bill’s extramarital affair. Bill denies any business or personal ties with Jeffrey Epstein, stating their interactions were purely philanthropic.
Bill Gates’ New Relationship
Bill Gates is now dating 60-year-old philanthropist Paula Hurd. The couple was recently seen at a black-tie event in Los Angeles, celebrating major scientific achievements.
Melinda Gates Addresses Romance Rumors
Melinda Gates stirred romance rumors by wearing a large diamond ring. However, she quickly clarified through a representative that she and former Fox News anchor Jon Du Pre have broken up and she is not engaged.
Melinda and Jon’s Surprising Relationship
The news of Melinda and Jon dating in 2022 surprised many. Jon Du Pre, who has a controversial past, seemed an unlikely match for Melinda, given his admission of verbally abusing his ex-wife.
Jon Du Pre’s Controversial Past
In his memoir, Jon confessed to bouts of ‘explosive rage’ towards his ex-wife. He admitted to verbally abusing her, calling her derogatory names, and blaming her for minor issues.
Melinda’s Dating Journey
Melinda revealed in March 2022 that she was exploring the dating world again post-divorce. She expressed optimism about finding love and excitement about her future.
First Public Appearance with Jon
A month after her announcement, Melinda and Jon were spotted at a Brooklyn Nets game. Later, they were seen spending time together at a luxury hotel in Newport Beach, California.
End of a Brief Romance
Despite their public outings, Melinda and Jon haven’t been photographed together since November 2022. The exact reasons for their split remain private.
