Three influential women, including philanthropist Melinda French Gates, are working together to end child marriage within a generation. French Gates is stepping down from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation that she co-founded with her ex-husband, Bill Gates, in 2000. She plans to focus on women and girls in the US and around the world with a $12.5 billion commitment to those goals. Despite their divorce, French Gates and Bill Gates intend to continue working together on their foundation.
French Gates emphasized the urgent need for support for those fighting to protect and advance equality. The Gates Foundation CEO, Mark Suzman, expressed sadness over her departure but reassured that the foundation’s work will continue to serve millions of people and work alongside thousands of partners. With $75.2 billion in assets at the end of 2023, the foundation remains a powerful force in philanthropy and global development.
The three powerful women, including French Gates, share a common goal of ending child marriage. They are determined to combat the societal norms and practices that perpetuate child marriage. By focusing on women and girls, they aim to empower them and give them the tools to make their own choices and decisions about their future. It is a concerted effort to break the cycle of poverty and provide opportunities for a brighter future for all.
Child marriage is a global issue that affects millions of girls every year. It robs them of their childhood, education, and opportunities for a better future. By working together, these powerful women hope to raise awareness about the impact of child marriage and advocate for policies and programs that will help end the practice. They believe that by investing in girls, they can transform communities and create a more just and equitable society for all.
French Gates’s departure from the Gates Foundation marks a new chapter in her philanthropic work, focusing on supporting women and girls both in the US and globally. Her commitment to gender equality and empowering women is evident in her dedication to this cause. Through her $12.5 billion commitment, she aims to make a significant impact on the lives of women and girls, providing them with the resources and support they need to thrive and lead fulfilling lives.
As these powerful women join forces to end child marriage, they are sending a powerful message to the world about the importance of gender equality and empowering women and girls. By working together and leveraging their resources and influence, they hope to create lasting change and improve the lives of millions of girls around the world. Their commitment to this cause is inspiring and demonstrates the power of collaboration and collective action in addressing some of the most pressing issues facing society today.
