Maye Musk 76: The Remarkable Life of the World’s Richest Mother

Maye Musk, the mother of the world’s wealthiest man, Elon Musk, is a woman who has crafted an extraordinary life, breaking boundaries and shattering stereotypes long before her son captured the global stage. As a model, author, and dietitian, Maye Musk has a compelling story that begins in Canada, spans South Africa, and now continues in the United States. Her resilience, career achievements, and personal experiences have made her an icon in her own right.

Video cast at the age of 67

Early Life and Roots in Canada and South Africa

Maye Haldeman was born in 1948 in Saskatchewan, Canada. Her family moved to South Africa when she was just a young girl, and it was there that Maye would spend much of her formative years. Growing up in Pretoria, South Africa, Maye’s adventurous spirit was evident from a young age. Her parents, Dr. Joshua and Wyn Haldeman, were known for their expeditions, often embarking on risky and thrilling journeys, including flying a plane from South Africa to Australia—an adventure that Maye and her siblings often accompanied them on.

It was in South Africa that Maye first ventured into modeling, beginning her career at just 15 years old. She quickly gained prominence, participating in beauty pageants and modeling gigs, earning a reputation for her poise and elegance.

Educational Journey and Career as a Dietitian

While modeling opened many doors for Maye, she pursued her passion for health and nutrition with equal vigor. She obtained a master’s degree in dietetics from the University of the Orange Free State in South Africa. Later, she earned another master’s degree in nutritional science from the University of Toronto, Canada.

Maye’s expertise as a dietitian became a crucial part of her career. She set up her practice, helping clients achieve healthier lifestyles while balancing her burgeoning modeling career. Her commitment to empowering people through health and wellness earned her respect in the nutrition community, and she became a sought-after expert in the field.

Motherhood and Challenges as a Single Parent

Maye Musk’s life took a dramatic turn when she married Errol Musk, an engineer, with whom she had three children—Elon, Kimbal, and Tosca. The marriage, however, was tumultuous, leading to a divorce that left Maye a single mother in South Africa. Raising three children on her own was no easy task, particularly as she struggled to make ends meet.

Despite the challenges, Maye was determined to provide her children with the best opportunities. Her tenacity and work ethic became a source of inspiration for them, and she often had to juggle multiple jobs to support her family. In 1989, she moved with her children to Canada, seeking better opportunities. This move laid the foundation for Elon Musk’s later journey to Silicon Valley, where he would rise to prominence as a tech billionaire.

Reinvention and Success in the United States

After relocating to North America, Maye Musk continued her modeling career, refusing to conform to conventional beauty standards that often sidelined older women. At a time when most models were expected to retire in their 30s, Maye defied the odds, re-entering the modeling world in her 60s. She landed high-profile campaigns and became a cover star for magazines like Time, Elle, and Vogue. Her striking silver hair and radiant confidence became her signature look, inspiring older women to embrace their age with pride.

Beyond modeling, Maye Musk also became a respected author. Her book, “A Woman Makes a Plan: Advice for a Lifetime of Adventure, Beauty, and Success,” became a bestseller, offering insights into her life’s challenges, triumphs, and the wisdom she gained through perseverance.

Maye Musk Today: A Global Icon

Now in her seventies, Maye Musk resides in Austin, Texas, where she continues to model, give motivational talks, and advocate for health and nutrition. She holds citizenship in Canada, South Africa, and the United States—a testament to her global journey and multifaceted identity.

Despite her son Elon Musk’s unparalleled wealth and influence as the CEO of companies like Tesla and SpaceX, Maye Musk has carved out her own legacy. She is often referred to as “the world’s richest mother,” not only because of her son’s financial success but because of her extraordinary life and accomplishments. Maye’s life story is a testament to the power of resilience, reinvention, and staying true to oneself regardless of age or societal expectations.

Legacy and Influence

Maye Musk’s life is a reminder that success is not limited by age, and that challenges, no matter how overwhelming, can be stepping stones to greater achievements. As a single mother, she raised children who went on to become influential figures in technology, cuisine, and film. Her life is a portrait of courage and independence—a narrative that continues to inspire millions around the world.

As she continues to captivate audiences, whether on the runway, at speaking engagements, or through her writing, Maye Musk embodies a timeless message: beauty, intelligence, and strength can flourish at any age. Her journey, from a small-town girl in Canada to a global role model, is proof that life can be full of possibilities, no matter the challenges one faces.

Maye Musk’s story, as the mother of one of the world’s most powerful individuals, is not just about being a parent to Elon Musk—it’s about her own extraordinary path, filled with reinvention, empowerment, and a relentless drive to keep moving forward.