Melinda French Gates, co-founder of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, is embarking on a new philanthropic journey centered on women’s rights and gender equality. This departure from the foundation, announced on Monday, signifies the culmination of her influential role in shaping one of the world’s most impactful philanthropic organizations.

Established nearly a quarter-century ago with her former husband, Bill Gates, the Gates Foundation has been instrumental in revolutionizing global philanthropy, particularly in areas of public health and development. Melinda French Gates, in her statement, expressed gratitude for the foundation’s robust state, signaling her readiness to transition into the next phase of her philanthropic endeavors.

With a substantial allocation of $12.5 billion for her philanthropic pursuits, Ms. French Gates aims to redouble her efforts in advancing the cause of women and families worldwide. Her steadfast advocacy for women’s empowerment underscores her belief that uplifting women benefits society as a whole.

Ms. French Gates’s primary vehicle for philanthropy, Pivotal Ventures, founded in 2015, has already made significant strides in issues such as paid family leave and female political representation. Collaborations with influential figures like Michelle Obama and Mackenzie Scott have further amplified her impact.

Bill Gates, now assuming sole leadership of the Gates Foundation, expressed regret at Ms. French Gates departure but acknowledged her profound contributions to the foundation’s vision. He emphasized her pivotal role in shaping the foundation’s trajectory and reaffirmed his commitment to its mission.

Ms. French Gates decision comes amidst broader changes within the Gates Foundation, prompted in part by her divorce from Bill Gates in 2021. This period of transition has seen efforts to strengthen governance and professionalize operations, including the addition of new trustees to the foundation’s board.

Throughout her tenure, Ms. French Gates has been a tireless advocate for women’s issues, leveraging her influence to address challenges such as family planning and maternal care. Her departure represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the Gates Foundation and heralds a renewed focus on women’s rights under Bill Gates’ leadership.

Despite challenges in navigating her role alongside her former husband, Ms. French Gates has remained steadfast in her commitment to making a difference. Her departure marks the beginning of a new chapter in her philanthropic journey, where she endeavors to reshape the trajectory of women’s rights globally.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The New York Times