Wealth primarily from public and private holdings in Lens Technology.
Zhou Qunfei is a Chinese billionaire entrepreneur who founded Lens Technology, a major supplier of glass covers for mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices. Her journey from humble beginnings to leading a global manufacturing giant has made her one of the most prominent figures in the technology sector.
She is recognized for her relentless work ethic and innovative approach to manufacturing, securing contracts with tech giants like Apple, Samsung, and Huawei.
- Born: Circa 1970
- Education: Technical college (Hunan University of Technology)
- Marital status: Married
- Children: 1
- Primary companies: Lens Technology
- Family office / holdings: Not publicly confirmed
Zhou Qunfei's fortune is predominantly tied to her controlling stake in Lens Technology, which went public in 2015. The company's success in supplying high-quality glass components to the world's leading electronics brands has been the primary driver of her wealth. Her portfolio also includes various investments within the technology and manufacturing sectors.
- World's richest self-made woman.
- Founder and CEO of Lens Technology, a major supplier of touchscreen glass.
- Her company supplies glass for Apple, Samsung, and Huawei products.
- Started working in a watch parts factory at age 16.
- Known for her hands-on approach to manufacturing.
- Philanthropic efforts focus on education and women's empowerment.
Born into a poor family in Xiangxiang, Hunan province, Zhou Qunfei's early life was marked by hardship. Her mother passed away when she was young, and her father lost his eyesight and a finger in an industrial accident. She dropped out of school at 16 to work in a watch parts factory in Shenzhen to support her family.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Zhou Qunfei showed an early aptitude for business and a strong work ethic. She attended night school to study accounting and computer operations, laying the groundwork for her future entrepreneurial endeavors.
Zhou Qunfei's entrepreneurial journey began in 1993 when she started her own watch glass processing workshop with her family, using 20,000 Hong Kong dollars saved from her factory job. This small venture laid the foundation for her future in glass manufacturing.
She quickly gained a reputation for quality and efficiency, expanding her operations to produce glass for mobile phones and other electronic devices.
The true breakthrough came in 2003 with the establishment of Lens Technology. The company initially focused on producing high-quality glass screens for mobile phones, securing early contracts with Motorola and later with other major brands.
Her ability to innovate and deliver precision-engineered glass components at scale positioned Lens Technology as a critical supplier in the rapidly expanding smartphone market.
Lens Technology's growth accelerated dramatically with the rise of smartphones, particularly after securing a contract with Apple for its iPhone screens. The company went public on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in 2015, making Zhou Qunfei one of the wealthiest women in the world.
She continued to expand the company's production capabilities and diversify its product offerings, investing in new technologies like sapphire glass and ceramic materials, and extending into automotive and smart home applications.
Lens Technology Co., Ltd. (Shenzhen Stock Exchange: 300433)
A global leader in the research, development, manufacturing, and sales of high-end glass, sapphire, and ceramic components for consumer electronics, automotive, and smart home industries.
Not publicly confirmed beyond her stake in Lens Technology and related investments.
Investments in technology and collaborations with major smartphone manufacturers, as well as ventures into sustainable manufacturing practices and smart glass technologies.
- Self-made success from humble beginnings
- Innovation in manufacturing and materials science
- Global supply chain leadership in consumer electronics
- Entrepreneurship and resilience
- Philanthropy focused on education and women's empowerment
Zhou Qunfei maintains a relatively private lifestyle despite her immense wealth, often focusing on her work. She is known for her hands-on approach at her factories.
Her philanthropic efforts are significant, particularly in education and women's empowerment. She has supported organizations like the China Women's Development Foundation and initiatives promoting STEM education for girls, aiming to create social impact beyond her business ventures.
- Forbes profile on Zhou Qunfei
- UpCube Money - Zhou Qunfei Profile
- Bloomberg Billionaires Index
- Lens Technology Official Website
As a prominent industrialist and one of China's most successful entrepreneurs, Zhou Qunfei holds considerable economic influence within China's manufacturing sector. Her company's role in the global tech supply chain gives her indirect influence on international trade and technology development.
While not directly involved in politics, her business success and philanthropic activities contribute to her public standing and soft power.
- Information compiled from publicly available financial reports, news articles, and biographical profiles. Net worth figures are estimates and subject to market fluctuations.
Zhou Qunfei's legacy is poised to be that of a pioneering self-made woman who built a global manufacturing empire from scratch. Her long-term vision includes further expanding Lens Technology's reach into new material technologies and sustainable manufacturing practices.
She aims to continue shaping the technology industry and inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs, particularly women, through her story of determination and innovation.
- Not publicly confirmed.