A Supermodel Grandmother with a Growing Family

Maye Musk is a woman of many titles: international supermodel, registered dietitian, and bestselling author. But at 77, one of her most cherished roles is that of a grandmother. With a family that continues to grow, she is the matriarch to a large and diverse group of grandchildren.

Her life is a whirlwind of photoshoots, speaking engagements, and global travel, yet she remains deeply connected to her family. Through her three children—Elon, Kimbal, and Tosca—Maye Musk has welcomed a new generation into the world, and she embraces her role with grace and a modern approach.

This is a look inside the life of Maye Musk as a grandmother, a role that adds a rich, personal layer to her public persona. It’s a story of family, values, and the unique bond she shares with her fourteen grandchildren.

How Many Grandchildren Does Maye Musk Have?

As of 2025, Maye Musk has a total of fourteen grandchildren. This number has grown significantly over the years, reflecting the expansion of her family. In 2020, she publicly shared a photo celebrating her then-eleven grandchildren, but the family has continued to welcome new members since.

The majority of her grandchildren come from her eldest son, Elon, who has a large and unconventional family. Her son Kimbal and daughter Tosca have also contributed to the growing number, creating a full and lively family tree that spans multiple continents.

This large number of grandchildren makes for bustling family gatherings and a dynamic that is anything but ordinary. It’s a testament to the Musk family’s growth and Maye’s central role as the head of the family.

Elon Musk’s Children Make Up the Majority

The bulk of Maye Musk’s grandchildren come from her son, Elon Musk, who has at least thirteen children with four different partners. This branch of the family is a complex and modern mix of personalities and backgrounds.

With his first wife, Justine Wilson, Elon had twins, Griffin and Vivian, and triplets, Kai, Saxon, and Damian. Their first son, Nevada, tragically passed away from SIDS. Vivian, who is transgender, has since taken her mother’s last name.

With the musician Grimes, Elon has three children, including X Æ A-Xii, Exa Dark Sideræl, and Techno Mechanicus. He also shares four children with Neuralink executive Shivon Zilis and has a son named Romulus with author Ashley St. Clair. This diverse group forms the majority of Maye Musk’s grandchildren.

Meet the Woman They Call “Ouma”

To her grandchildren, Maye Musk is not just a famous model or the mother of a tech billionaire. She is “Ouma,” a name that holds special significance. “Ouma” is the Afrikaans word for grandmother, a nod to the family’s South African roots.

Maye chose this name herself, wanting something unique among the other grandparents in the family. It’s a name that reflects her heritage and the personal, intimate connection she shares with each grandchild.

Being “Ouma” is a role she cherishes, one that grounds her amidst her high-profile career. It’s a title that speaks to her identity as a family matriarch, a source of love and stability.

Maye Musk’s Unique Approach to Grandmotherhood

Maye Musk’s approach to being a grandmother is as modern and unconventional as her career. She prioritizes quality time and emotional connection over material possessions, famously stating that “hugs are the best gifts.”

She believes in teaching her grandchildren independence and good manners. When one of her grandchildren asked her for a glass of water, she replied, “No, but you can.” This simple response encapsulates her philosophy of empowering them to be self-sufficient.

Despite her demanding schedule, she makes time for her family, operating on a “first-come, first-served” basis for babysitting requests. It’s a practical approach that ensures she is there for her children when they need her most.

Family Values That Span Three Generations

The values that Maye Musk instills in her grandchildren are the same ones she learned from her own adventurous parents and passed down to her children. Hard work, independence, and the courage to pursue one’s passions are cornerstones of the Musk family philosophy.

She leads by example, showing her grandchildren the importance of planning, perseverance, and supporting one another. Her children were encouraged to follow their interests, and she extends this same support to her grandchildren.

Kindness and respect are also non-negotiable, especially at the dinner table, where good manners are expected. These values create a strong family bond that has been passed down through three generations.

Special Moments and Family Gatherings

Despite the family’s global presence, Maye Musk makes a point of creating special moments with her grandchildren. She has shared glimpses of these times on social media, often with the children’s faces hidden to protect their privacy.

Family gatherings are large, lively affairs. One year, the entire family of over forty members vacationed together at a resort in Costa Rica. She has also celebrated milestones like her 77th birthday surrounded by her grandkids.

Whether it’s attending one of Elon’s rocket launches or a premiere for Tosca’s film company, Maye is there to support her family. These moments, big and small, are what she cherishes most.

Balancing Fame and Family Life

At 77, Maye Musk continues to have a thriving career as a model, appearing on magazine covers and serving as a CoverGirl spokesmodel. She travels the world for speaking engagements, yet her family remains her top priority.

She has been known to turn down work to be available for her grandchildren, demonstrating that her commitment to family is unwavering. She shows them that age is no barrier to success and that it is possible to balance a demanding career with a rich family life.

Her ability to navigate both fame and family with grace sets a powerful example for her grandchildren. She proves that a woman can indeed have it all: a successful career and a close, loving family.

Advice from a Grandmother Who’s Seen It All

With a lifetime of experience, Maye Musk has a wealth of wisdom to share, but she prefers to give advice only when asked. She believes her grandchildren learn best by watching her actions and living by the values she embodies.

Her advice to other grandparents is simple: “Be healthy and don’t complain about your aches and pains because grandchildren don’t care. They just want to be with you.” She encourages staying active, both physically and mentally, to keep up with the younger generation.

Ultimately, her philosophy is about being present. It’s about offering hugs, sharing stories, and creating a legacy of love and support that will continue for generations to come.