Forbes’ 2024 billionaires list has unveiled some remarkable individuals, including Cloudflare cofounder Michelle Zatlyn, Advanced Micro Devices boss Lisa Su, and pop sensation Taylor Swift. However, it’s Swiss-Italian shipping magnate Rafaela Aponte-Diamant who emerges as one of the world’s wealthiest self-made women, boasting a staggering fortune of $33 billion.
Aponte-Diamant’s wealth stems from her 50% stake in the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), which she co-founded alongside her husband Gianluigi Aponte in 1970. Despite starting from humble beginnings, the couple transformed MSC into the world’s largest global container shipping company, with over 800 vessels in its fleet.
The success of MSC, coupled with its ownership of the third-largest cruise company, MSC Cruises, has solidified Aponte-Diamant’s position as a global business titan. Despite maintaining a low profile, her influence in the shipping industry is undeniable, with her meticulous oversight extending to the decor of MSC’s cruise ships.
While Aponte-Diamant’s journey to billionaire status may have been unconventional, her remarkable achievements underscore the limitless potential of self-made women in today’s business landscape. As she continues to shape the future of the shipping industry, Aponte-Diamant serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.
