On a personal note, when asked what she’d want somebody to find if they searched for updates on her down the line, French Gates replied that she’d want the public to see “she’s thriving on the other side of a divorce.” As for her now, the Pivotal Ventures founder told Elle she is focused on her work while still making time for her personal life.

Melinda Gates has responded to her ex-husband Bill Gates ’s comments about their divorce. Earlier this year, the Microsoft founder named his divorce from Melinda after 27 years as “the mistake he most regrets.” In an interview with Elle for its 2025 Women of Impact issue published on Monday, Melinda was asked about his remarks.

Melinda French Gates explained why she and ex-husband Bill Gates let their children—Phoebe, Jennifer and Rory—decide for themselves what last names they wanted to go by.