Maye Musk, mother of billionaire Elon Musk, is a true testament to resilience and reinvention. Despite enduring 15 challenging years as a single mother, she raised her children into extraordinary achievers and became an international supermodel at the age of 70.
A Supermodel at 76
Maye Musk graced the January 2024 cover of Tatler China, dazzling in a red silk cape dress paired with a matching feathered hat. At 76, she continues to redefine beauty standards, with a modeling career spanning six decades. She has appeared in Vogue, Time, and Beyoncé’s music video, while also serving as a spokesperson for Revlon. As a licensed dietitian and author, she shares health advice and life lessons on her social media platforms.
A Life of Struggles and Perseverance
Maye’s journey was anything but easy. In 1970, she married Erroll Musk and had three children: Elon, Kimbal, and Tosca. However, the marriage was marred by emotional abuse. “He called me stupid, ugly, and boring in public,” she revealed in a 2019 Harper’s Bazaar interview. After their divorce in 1979, Maye moved with her children to Toronto, Canada, where survival became her priority.
Working five jobs at a time, she ensured her children had opportunities. To qualify for free university tuition for her kids, she took a job in the research department at the University of Toronto. Her first paycheck went toward a carpet for their nearly empty apartment and a computer for Elon, laying the groundwork for his future ventures.
Raising Resilient Children
Despite their struggles, Maye instilled independence and work ethic in her children. She helped Elon secure an early job at Microsoft and arranged part-time roles for Kimbal and Tosca. “I taught them basic life skills: how to care for themselves, be kind, and stay polite,” she told CNBC.
Her children thrived:
Elon Musk became the founder of Tesla and SpaceX, revolutionizing multiple industries.
Kimbal Musk is a successful restaurateur and entrepreneur.
Tosca Musk is a critically acclaimed film producer.
The family bond remained strong. During tough times, Elon and Kimbal gifted her a toy house, promising to buy her a real one in the future. That toy house, Maye shared, holds more meaning than any luxury.
Legacy of Hard Work and Growth
Maye Musk believes in constant evolution. At 94, her mother learned Mac-based graphic design, inspiring Maye to keep pushing boundaries. Today, she continues to model, advocate, and share wisdom. Retirement, she insists, is not in her vocabulary.
Her story exemplifies the power of determination, proving that even amid adversity, one can shape a remarkable life.
