Money does not discriminate. It flows to those who understand how to build, multiply, and protect it. For centuries, wealth remained in the hands of men, but determined women have rewritten that script. The richest self-made women have built business empires, reshaped industries, and defied every limitation placed on them.
From shipping and construction to online gambling and retail, these women carved their own paths. They started with ideas, faced rejection, and fought for their place at the table. Now, they control billions. Their stories prove that success is not about where you begin but how relentless you are in chasing your goals.
This article highlights the ten richest self-made women, their industries, and the decisions that made them successful. Some took risks others feared. Some turned small ideas into global companies. Others refused to let failure define them.
Here is a list of 10 richest self-made women in the world:
1. Rafaela Aponte-Diamant – Richest Self-Made Woman in the World
Rafaela Aponte-Diamant controls the seas, not from the captain’s deck, but from the boardroom. Her wealth, estimated at $33.1 billion, comes from an industry where women rarely hold power—shipping. As the richest self-made woman, she transformed a single vessel into a global business empire, proving that bold decisions create lasting wealth.
A Modest Beginning with a Single Ship
In 1970, Rafaela and her husband, Gianluigi Aponte, borrowed money to purchase their first cargo ship. They had no family connections in shipping, just a determination to succeed. Unlike industry giants focused on well-established ports, they looked for untapped opportunities in smaller markets. This approach helped them grow faster, avoiding direct competition with more powerful companies.
What started as a single vessel soon became a fleet. Over the years, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) expanded aggressively. The company bought more ships, acquired new routes, and established itself as a serious competitor. Despite economic downturns, MSC remained resilient, adapting to market shifts and increasing global demand for trade.
Building an Empire Beyond Cargo Ships
While MSC dominated the cargo shipping business, Rafaela saw another opportunity—luxury travel. She spearheaded the creation of MSC Cruises, turning it into one of the largest cruise lines in the world. The same business principles that made MSC a success—strategic expansion, cost efficiency, and exceptional service—helped the cruise division thrive. Today, millions of passengers travel on MSC Cruises every year, making it a strong competitor to older cruise lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean.
The Power of Ownership and Control
Unlike many billionaires who rely on public investments, Rafaela and her husband kept MSC a private company. This allowed them to make bold decisions without pressure from outside shareholders. Their long-term vision focused on steady growth rather than short-term profits. While other shipping companies struggled with financial instability, MSC remained one of the strongest players in the industry.
See Also: Goal Setting for Entrepreneurs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Lessons from the Richest Self-Made Woman
Rafaela’s success story holds valuable lessons. She built her wealth by identifying gaps in the market and taking calculated risks. She proved that industries dominated by men are not off-limits to women who understand strategy and execution. Today, her name may not be widely recognised, but her business decisions move economies.
Her fortune continues to grow as global trade expands. With ships carrying goods across continents and luxury cruises welcoming millions of travellers, Rafaela Aponte-Diamant remains the richest self-made woman, a title she earned through decades of persistence.
Source: Forbes Billionaires List 2024
2. Diane Hendricks – The Richest Self-Made Woman in Construction
Diane Hendricks built her fortune with bricks and roofs, proving that wealth does not come from glamour but from solving everyday problems. With a net worth of $21.9 billion, she stands as one of the richest self-made women, dominating an industry where few women hold power—building supplies.
A Farm Girl with Big Ambitions
Diane grew up on a dairy farm in Wisconsin, where hard work was a way of life. Her upbringing taught her discipline, persistence, and the value of labour. Unlike many self-made billionaires who start in major cities, she began in small-town America. She married young, became a mother at 17, and later divorced. But she refused to let circumstances dictate her future.
Determined to change her life, Diane took a job selling custom-built homes. This experience introduced her to the construction industry and sparked an idea—contractors needed a reliable supplier for roofing and exterior building materials.
See Also: How to Start a Business and Get Rich: Step-by-Step Guide
Starting a Business with a Clear Vision
In 1982, Diane and her late husband, Ken Hendricks, started ABC Supply Co. Their mission was simple—make it easier for construction workers to get quality roofing, windows, and siding. At the time, contractors had to visit multiple suppliers to get the materials they needed. ABC Supply eliminated this hassle by providing everything in one place.
With just one store, they took a risk. But Diane understood something others did not—contractors needed speed and convenience. Her strategy worked, and soon, ABC Supply started expanding across the United States.
Scaling the Business to a Billion-Dollar Empire
Diane and Ken grew ABC Supply aggressively. They acquired struggling competitors, improved logistics, and expanded product lines. By focusing on customer service and efficiency, they turned a small business into the largest wholesale distributor of roofing materials in America.
When Ken passed away in 2007, many expected Diane to step back. Instead, she took full control and pushed the company even further. Under her leadership, ABC Supply continued to expand, acquiring rival businesses and opening hundreds of new locations.
A Legacy Built on Hard Work
Diane’s success did not come from luck. She studied the industry, understood her customers, and worked relentlessly to expand her company. Today, ABC Supply has over 900 locations across the United States, generating billions in revenue each year.
Despite her fortune, she remains deeply involved in business and community development. She invests heavily in real estate, revitalising areas that others overlook. Her wealth is not just about money—it is about building, expanding, and creating lasting value.
Lessons from One of the Richest Self-Made Women
Diane Hendricks proves that no industry is off-limits for those who understand its needs. She saw a problem, provided a solution, and built a multi-billion-dollar empire. From selling homes to running America’s largest building supplies company, her journey reflects the power of vision, execution, and persistence.
Source: Forbes Billionaires List 2024
3. Judy Love – From a $5,000 Loan to a Multi-Billion Dollar Empire
Judy Love’s story is proof that a small idea, when executed well, can turn into a billion-dollar business. With a net worth of $11.6 billion, she ranks among the richest self-made women. Her wealth comes from an industry that most people overlook—petrol stations and convenience stores.
A Simple Start with a Bold Idea
Judy and her husband, Tom Love, began their journey in 1964 with a $5,000 loan. At the time, they had no wealth, no investors, and no guarantee of success. But they saw an opportunity in a struggling petrol station.
Rather than running a standard filling station, they introduced a new model—offering fuel and essential goods in one place. The idea was simple but effective. Travellers could buy fuel and pick up snacks, drinks, and other items without making extra stops.
Expanding Beyond One Station
Their first station performed well, encouraging them to expand. Judy managed finances while Tom handled operations. They reinvested profits into new locations, each time improving their services.
By the 1980s, their brand, Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores, became a household name. The company opened locations along major highways, catering to long-distance travellers and truck drivers. Unlike traditional fuel stations, Love’s offered clean restrooms, quality food, and a welcoming environment—things that most competitors ignored.
Turning a Small Business into a Nationwide Giant
Judy played a crucial role in managing Love’s finances. She ensured steady growth, helping the business expand without taking unnecessary risks. As a result, Love’s Travel Stops never faced major financial struggles, even during economic downturns.
Her careful planning and attention to detail helped Love’s grow into a billion-dollar business with over 640 locations across 42 states. The company generates billions in revenue each year and employs thousands of people.
A Legacy That Keeps Growing
Judy’s impact extends beyond the business. She and her family invest heavily in education, donating millions to schools and scholarship programmes. Her success story highlights the power of smart financial management, steady expansion, and customer-focused services.
Lessons from One of the Richest Self-Made Women
Judy Love’s journey proves that consistency and financial discipline can build an empire. She did not chase trends or risky investments. Instead, she focused on expanding slowly, maintaining quality, and meeting customer needs. From a single petrol station to a multi-billion-dollar empire, her story serves as inspiration for those willing to build from the ground up.
Source: Forbes Billionaires List 2024
4. Denise Coates – The Richest Self-Made Woman in Online Gambling
Denise Coates did not inherit a business empire. She built one from scratch in an industry many dismissed. As the richest self-made woman in online gambling, her net worth of $9.5 billion comes from a company she created from nothing—Bet365.
From a Small Betting Shop to an Online Powerhouse
Denise grew up around the betting industry. Her father owned a chain of betting shops, but she wanted something bigger. In the late 1990s, she saw an opportunity others ignored—the future of gambling was online.
At the time, traditional bookmakers controlled the industry. Most believed punters would never trust online platforms with their money. But Denise thought differently. She understood that convenience would change everything.
Taking a Huge Risk to Build Bet365
In 2000, she made a bold move. She took a £15 million loan against her family’s betting shops and used the money to launch Bet365. It was a massive risk—one that could have destroyed her family business if it failed.
She hired the best developers, built a secure platform, and focused on making betting as easy as possible. While competitors were slow to adapt, Bet365 went fully digital. Punters no longer needed to visit a shop—they could bet from their computers or phones at any time.
The Rise of a Billion-Dollar Business
Denise’s strategy paid off. Bet365 became one of the largest online betting companies in the world. It processed billions in bets every year and attracted millions of customers worldwide. Unlike other gambling companies that relied on flashy marketing, Bet365 focused on user experience, reliability, and customer trust.
Even when competitors finally moved online, Bet365 remained ahead. The company introduced in-play betting, allowing users to place bets while games were happening—a feature that revolutionised the industry.
Keeping Full Control of Her Business
Unlike many billionaires who sell their companies or go public, Denise kept Bet365 privately owned. This allowed her to make decisions without outside pressure. Her leadership remains strong, and she continues to grow her company without interference from shareholders.
Lessons from One of the Richest Self-Made Women
Denise Coates’ story shows that taking calculated risks and trusting your vision can lead to extraordinary success. She saw where the market was heading before others did, and she acted. While others hesitated, she moved quickly. Today, her name is not often in the headlines, but her company dominates an industry worth billions.
Source: Forbes Billionaires List 2024
5. Wu Yajun – The Richest Self-Made Woman in Real Estate
Wu Yajun did not grow up in wealth. She started as a journalist earning a modest salary, but her ambition pushed her beyond the newsroom. With a net worth of $8.2 billion, she ranks among the richest self-made women, building one of the largest real estate empires in China.
From Writing News to Writing Business Deals
Born in 1964, Wu Yajun graduated with a degree in engineering and took a job at a state-owned newspaper. She spent years covering business stories, analysing market trends, and interviewing industry leaders. While others saw journalism as a career, she saw it as an education in finance and business.
Wu noticed one thing—China’s real estate sector was growing fast. People were moving to cities, and demand for commercial and residential buildings was soaring. She decided to act.
Taking the Leap into Real Estate
In 1993, Wu and her husband co-founded Longfor Properties with limited capital. Unlike older developers who focused on luxury homes, they targeted the rising middle class. Their approach was simple—build high-quality but affordable properties in fast-growing cities.
The strategy worked. As China’s economy expanded, so did demand for housing and commercial spaces. Longfor Properties grew rapidly, developing shopping malls, office buildings, and residential communities.
Rising to the Top of the Industry
By the 2000s, Longfor became one of China’s biggest real estate firms. The company expanded beyond Beijing, investing in major cities where property values were rising. Wu oversaw every detail, from project selection to financing, ensuring steady growth.
Her leadership helped Longfor avoid many of the financial mistakes that troubled other developers. While competitors borrowed heavily and collapsed under debt, she focused on sustainable expansion.
A Billionaire Who Built Her Wealth Through Strategy
Wu Yajun’s success was not accidental. She understood the market, adapted to economic changes, and avoided reckless decisions. Her business acumen helped her rise to the top, making her one of the richest self-made women in history.
Even after stepping down as Longfor’s chairwoman, her influence remains strong. The company continues to thrive, proving that wealth built on solid foundations lasts longer.
Lessons from One of the Richest Self-Made Women
Wu Yajun’s story proves that knowledge and observation can be powerful tools for success. She used her journalism background to understand real estate trends before others did. She entered the market at the right time and made calculated investments that turned into billions.
Source: Forbes Billionaires List 2024
6. Zhong Huijuan – The Richest Self-Made Woman in Pharmaceuticals
Zhong Huijuan made her fortune not by inheriting a family business but by building one from nothing. With a net worth of $7.9 billion, she ranks among the richest self-made women, leading one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in China. Her journey from a chemistry teacher to a billionaire businesswoman is a story of vision, persistence, and strategic decisions.
From Teaching Chemistry to Manufacturing Medicine
Zhong Huijuan began her career as a chemistry teacher. For years, she taught students the principles of science, unaware that she would one day apply those same principles to build a pharmaceutical empire.
In the 1990s, China’s pharmaceutical industry was growing. Zhong recognised an opportunity—demand for high-quality, affordable medicine was rising, but supply remained limited. Instead of staying in the classroom, she decided to enter the industry and fill that gap.
Building a Multi-Billion-Dollar Pharmaceutical Company
In 1995, she founded Hansoh Pharmaceutical Group, starting small but with big ambitions. Unlike many companies that focused only on domestic markets, she aimed for both national and international growth.
She focused on producing high-quality drugs for major medical needs, including mental health, oncology, and infectious diseases. This strategic focus allowed Hansoh to stand out in a crowded industry. Over the years, the company expanded its research and development, ensuring its products met global standards.
Rapid Growth and Market Leadership
Hansoh Pharmaceutical grew steadily, becoming one of China’s leading drug manufacturers. By focusing on scientific innovation, affordability, and international expansion, Zhong positioned her company as a key player in the pharmaceutical sector.
When the company went public in 2019, it raised over $1 billion, further boosting its value. Today, Hansoh continues to grow, producing essential medicines for millions of patients.
Staying Ahead in a Competitive Industry
Zhong remains deeply involved in Hansoh’s operations, ensuring the company stays ahead in medical research. She understands that pharmaceuticals require constant innovation, and she invests heavily in research to keep Hansoh competitive.
Her ability to adapt to changing medical trends and expand globally has kept her business thriving. While others focused on short-term gains, she built a company designed for long-term success.
Lessons from One of the Richest Self-Made Women
Zhong Huijuan’s story shows that expertise and strategic thinking can create immense wealth. She identified an industry gap, built a business to fill that need, and ensured continuous growth through innovation. From teaching chemistry to running a pharmaceutical empire, she proves that knowledge, when applied correctly, can lead to financial success.
Source: Forbes Billionaires List 2024
7. Fan Hongwei – The Richest Self-Made Woman in Chemicals and Textiles
Fan Hongwei built her fortune in an industry that few associate with billionaires—chemicals and synthetic fibres. With a net worth of $7.7 billion, she stands among the richest self-made women, leading a company that supplies materials for everyday products, from clothing to industrial goods.
Starting Small with a Clear Goal
Fan did not come from wealth. She started her career working in the chemical industry, learning the technical and business aspects of the trade. During the 1990s, China’s manufacturing sector was expanding rapidly, and she saw an opportunity—the demand for synthetic fibres and chemicals was rising.
Rather than working for someone else, she decided to create her own business. She understood that industries like fashion, construction, and technology all relied on high-quality chemical materials. If she could provide those materials reliably, she could build something huge.
Building Hengli Group into an Industry Leader
In 1994, Fan and her husband founded Hengli Petrochemical, starting with a small operation focused on producing polyester materials. Polyester is used in clothing, packaging, and industrial applications, making it a valuable product in global supply chains.
Her company grew steadily, investing in advanced manufacturing technology and large-scale production facilities. Over the years, Hengli expanded into oil refining and high-performance materials, making it one of the most important chemical suppliers in China.
Competing on a Global Scale
While many companies in China focused only on domestic markets, Fan had a bigger vision. She expanded Hengli’s reach globally, ensuring the company met international quality standards and supplied customers worldwide.
Her ability to adapt to market demands, invest in new technology, and scale production efficiently helped her company dominate the sector. Hengli now operates one of the world’s largest polyester manufacturing plants, supplying essential materials to global brands.
A Billionaire Who Built Her Fortune Through Strategy
Fan Hongwei’s success did not come from taking shortcuts. She built her empire by understanding market needs, investing in infrastructure, and maintaining product quality. Her company continues to grow, adapting to new industrial trends and technological advancements.
Lessons from One of the Richest Self-Made Women
Fan Hongwei proves that the biggest opportunities often lie in industries others overlook. She turned chemicals and textiles into a billion-dollar empire by recognising demand and delivering reliable products at scale. While fashion brands get the attention, she supplies the materials that keep the industry running.
Source: Forbes Billionaires List 2024
8. Gina Rinehart – The Richest Self-Made Woman in Mining
Gina Rinehart built her wealth beneath the earth’s surface. With a net worth of $27.7 billion, she stands among the richest self-made women, transforming a struggling mining company into a global powerhouse. Her success proves that fortunes are made not just by finding resources but by managing them wisely.
Turning a Failing Business into a Billion-Dollar Empire
Gina inherited Hancock Prospecting from her father, Lang Hancock, but she did not inherit wealth. When she took over in 1992, the company was drowning in debt. Many believed she would fail. Instead, she rebuilt the business from the ground up.
She focused on iron ore, a material in high demand for construction and manufacturing. While competitors hesitated, Gina expanded mining operations aggressively. She negotiated new deals, secured funding, and restructured the company.
Massive Expansion and Unmatched Growth
Her biggest success came with the Roy Hill mining project. This multi-billion-dollar iron ore mine became one of the most significant private mining projects in Australia. Despite challenges, including legal battles and financial struggles, she ensured its success.
Under her leadership, Hancock Prospecting grew from a failing business into one of the world’s largest mining companies. She expanded operations beyond iron ore, investing in agriculture, infrastructure, and energy, ensuring long-term stability.
A Relentless Businesswoman with a Sharp Strategy
Gina is known for her tough negotiation skills and ability to take on powerful competitors. She understands that mining is not just about digging minerals but about managing resources efficiently. Unlike many in the industry, she reinvests heavily in her operations, ensuring that her company remains at the top.
Her approach has paid off—Hancock Prospecting generates billions in revenue each year, securing her place among the richest self-made women.
Lessons from One of the Richest Self-Made Women
Gina Rinehart’s success story highlights the power of turning obstacles into opportunities. She did not simply inherit wealth—she built it by making bold decisions, expanding aggressively, and managing resources wisely. Today, she remains a dominant force in the mining industry, proving that strategy and persistence create lasting success.
Source: Forbes Billionaires List 2024
9. Abigail Johnson – The Richest Self-Made Woman in Finance
Abigail Johnson commands one of the most powerful investment firms in the world. With a net worth of $25.7 billion, she stands among the richest self-made women, leading Fidelity Investments, a company that manages trillions of dollars. Unlike many wealthy individuals in finance, she did not rely solely on inheritance—she expanded and modernised the business to make it even more successful.
Entering a Male-Dominated Industry
Abigail started her career in 1988 as a low-level analyst at Fidelity, the company founded by her grandfather. Many assumed she would receive special treatment, but she worked her way up, proving her expertise in investment management.
At the time, finance was heavily male-dominated. Few women held leadership positions, and even fewer controlled major financial firms. But Abigail understood the power of technology and innovation in asset management.
Modernising Fidelity Investments
When she became CEO in 2014, Fidelity was already a successful company. But she saw an opportunity—the future of finance was digital. She invested heavily in technology, automation, and cryptocurrency services, ensuring that Fidelity stayed ahead of competitors.
Her leadership helped the company expand globally, attracting millions of new investors. Under her control, Fidelity manages over $4 trillion in assets, making it one of the largest investment firms in the world.
A Strong Business Mind with a Vision for the Future
Abigail did not just continue her family’s legacy—she reshaped it. She understood that financial markets were changing and adapted faster than her rivals. She also ensured that Fidelity remained privately owned, allowing for more long-term growth without outside pressure.
Her strategic decisions secured her place among the richest self-made women in finance. Unlike many billionaires, her wealth is built on managing and growing the investments of millions of people worldwide.
Lessons from One of the Richest Self-Made Women
Abigail Johnson proves that modernising a business and staying ahead of trends leads to long-term wealth. She took control of an established company and made it even bigger, proving that inheritance alone does not create billionaires—strategy and innovation do.
Source: Forbes Billionaires List 2024
10. Renata Kellnerova – The Richest Self-Made Woman in Investment and Banking
Renata Kellnerova is one of the richest self-made women, with a net worth of $16.3 billion. She built her fortune through investment and banking, expanding one of Europe’s most powerful financial groups. Her wealth is not the result of a quick rise but years of strategic planning, acquisitions, and financial expertise.
Managing and Expanding a Billion-Dollar Empire
Renata’s financial journey began alongside her late husband, Petr Kellner, the founder of PPF Group—a multinational investment firm. Although the company started as a small venture in the early 1990s, it grew rapidly, investing in finance, telecommunications, and real estate.
When Petr passed away in 2021, many expected the company to struggle. Instead, Renata took full control, proving her ability to lead and grow the business. Rather than selling off assets, she expanded PPF’s investments, focusing on emerging markets and high-growth sectors.
Smart Investments That Increased Her Wealth
Renata made key decisions that ensured PPF remained one of Europe’s largest financial firms. The company operates in over 25 countries, with holdings in banking, telecoms, and consumer finance.
She also strengthened PPF’s presence in Asia, recognising the region’s economic growth potential. By maintaining a long-term investment strategy, she ensured steady expansion even during economic downturns.
A Billionaire Known for Strategic Thinking
Renata’s ability to manage risk, expand wisely, and adapt to changing financial markets has made her one of the richest self-made women in banking and investments. She remains focused on long-term financial growth, ensuring that PPF continues to thrive.
Her leadership proves that wealth is not just about inheritance—it is about knowing how to manage, protect, and expand it.
Lessons from One of the Richest Self-Made Women
Renata Kellnerova’s story highlights the importance of financial intelligence and long-term planning. She turned a personal tragedy into a powerful opportunity by strengthening and growing a billion-dollar investment empire. Her approach shows that wealth is built not just by owning assets but by making the right financial decisions at the right time.
Source: Forbes Billionaires List 2024
Key Takeaways – What the Richest Self-Made Women Teach About Wealth
- Find Gaps in the Market – Rafaela Aponte-Diamant focused on smaller ports when others ignored them. Denise Coates saw the future of online gambling before her competitors. Identifying untapped opportunities can create massive financial success.
- Take Smart Risks – Diane Hendricks expanded her company aggressively, but she did so with careful planning. Judy Love started with a small loan but reinvested wisely. The richest self-made women understand that risk is necessary, but it must be calculated.
- Stay Ahead of the Industry – Abigail Johnson modernised Fidelity Investments with technology and cryptocurrency. Zhong Huijuan focused on pharmaceutical research, ensuring her company stayed competitive. Success does not come from following trends—it comes from being ahead of them.
- Control Your Business Growth – Many of these women kept full or majority ownership of their companies. This allowed them to make bold decisions without outside pressure. When you control your business, you control your financial future.
- Persistence Creates Success – Gina Rinehart saved her company from collapse. Fan Hongwei built her fortune in a highly competitive industry. The richest self-made women understand that setbacks are part of the journey, but giving up is never an option.
Conclusion
The richest self-made women did not wait for opportunities—they created them. Each of these billionaires started with a vision, took risks, and built their empires from the ground up. Their stories prove that wealth does not come from luck but from strategy, persistence, and the ability to seize opportunities.
These ten women prove that wealth is built, not given. They earned their billions through hard work, innovation, and strong decision-making. Their stories should inspire anyone who dreams of financial success. The richest self-made women started somewhere—so can you.
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FAQs on Richest Self-Made Women
Who is currently the richest self-made woman in the world?
As of 2024, Rafaela Aponte-Diamant holds the title of the richest self-made woman. She co-founded and co-owns MSC, the world’s largest shipping company.
How did Diane Hendricks build her wealth?
Diane Hendricks co-founded ABC Supply, one of the largest distributors of roofing and windows in the USA. Starting in the 1970s, she expanded the company to over 900 branches, achieving significant revenue milestones.
What industries have the richest self-made women invested in?
The wealthiest self-made women have diversified investments across various sectors, including building supplies, gas stations, convenience stores, healthcare software, IT services, packaging materials, agriculture, restaurants, car dealerships, trucking, and aerospace.
How did Judy Love start her business?
In 1964, Judy Love and her husband founded Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores by leasing their first gas station with a $5,000 loan. The business has since grown to more than 644 stores in 42 states.
What is the self-made score, and how is it determined?
The self-made score is a metric that assesses the level of individual effort and innovation involved in building wealth. A score of 9 indicates someone who “rose from little to nothing,” while a score of 10 represents an individual who grew up poor and overcame significant obstacles.
