MacKenzie Scott
BIO:
- Name: MacKenzie Scott
- Title/Position: Novelist, Philanthropist, Co-founder of Amazon
- Industry: Literature, Philanthropy, Technology
- Location: Seattle, Washington, USA
- Age: 54 - (7th of April 1970)
- Net Worth: [Estimated amount, e.g., €500 million (as of 2024)]
MacKenzie Scott’s Story
Born in San Francisco, California, she discovered her passion for writing early on, penning a 142-page book titled “The Book Worm” at just six years old. She pursued her love for literature at Princeton University, studying under Nobel Laureate Toni Morrison, who praised her as “one of the best students I’ve ever had in my creative writing classes.”
After graduating, MacKenzie Scott worked at D.E. Shaw, a New York City hedge fund, where she met Jeff Bezos. The couple married in 1993 and relocated to Seattle in 1994, co-founding Amazon. MacKenzie played a pivotal role in Amazon’s early days, contributing to the company’s name, business plan, and shipping early orders. As Amazon grew, she shifted her focus back to writing and family, publishing her debut novel, “The Testing of Luther Albright,” in 2005, which earned her the American Book Award in 2006. Her second novel, “Traps,” was released in 2013.
In 2019, MacKenzie and Bezzo got divorced, and she received a 4% stake in Amazon, valued at approximately $35.6 billion at the time, making her one of the world’s wealthiest women.
Since then, MacKenzie Scott’s philanthropy has been exceptional. She has committed to the Giving Pledge, vowing to donate at least half of her fortune to charitable causes. She has redefined philanthropy, donating over $19 billion to more than 2,000 organizations by 2024, focusing on areas such as racial equity, LGBTQ+ rights, and economic mobility.
Career Highlights
Key Milestones:
- 1994: Co-founded Amazon, contributing significantly to its early development.
- 2005: Published debut novel, “The Testing of Luther Albright,” winning the American Book Award in 2006.
- 2014: Founded Bystander Revolution, an anti-bullying organization, serving as its executive director.
- 2019: Finalized divorce from Jeff Bezos, receiving a substantial Amazon stake, and committing to the Giving Pledge.
Achievements:
- Literary Accomplishments: Authored two novels, with her debut receiving critical acclaim.
- Philanthropy: Donated over $19 billion to various causes, emphasizing unrestricted, high-impact contributions.
- Recognition: Named one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People in 2020 and featured in Forbes’ list of the world’s most powerful women in 2021 and 2023.
MacKenzie Scott’s Net Worth
MacKenzie’s wealth primarily stems from her 4% stake in Amazon, received during her divorce settlement. Despite her substantial philanthropic efforts, her net worth remains significant, showing her financial acumen and commitment to giving back.
MacKenzie Scott in the News
- November 2024: Sold 61.66 million Amazon shares, raising billions for future charitable donations.
- December 2024: Donated $50 million to Undue Medical Debt, marking her third contribution to the organization.
- January 2025: Announced an additional $2 billion in donations, bringing her total giving to $19.2 billion since 2019.
Quotes by MacKenzie Scott
“There are lots of resources each of us can pull from our safes to share with others. And something greater rises up every time we give.”
“I have a disproportionate amount of money to share. My approach to philanthropy will continue to be thoughtful. It will take time and effort and care. But I won’t wait. And I will keep at it until the safe is empty.”
FAQs: Most Asked Questions About MacKenzie Scott
How much is MacKenzie Scott worth?
As of February 2025, MacKenzie Scott’s net worth is estimated at $33.5 billion.
How did MacKenzie Scott become successful?
MacKenzie’s success is multifaceted, encompassing her role in co-founding Amazon, her achievements as an award-winning novelist, and her impactful philanthropic initiatives.
Does MacKenzie Scott still own Amazon stock?
Yes, she retains a 4% stake in Amazon, which she received as part of her divorce settlement.
How many children do Jeff Bezos and MacKenzie Scott have?
They have four children: three sons and one adopted daughter.
What are Mackenzie Scott’s books?
MacKenzie Scott has written two novels:
The Testing of Luther Albright (2005)
This is her debut novel, a psychological drama about a devoted father struggling with personal and professional challenges.
Traps (2013)
A multi-perspective novel following four women from different backgrounds whose lives intertwine over a four-day journey.
