The African American community faces a plethora of challenges. But still, many people have proved that resilience and hard work are the keys to success. When it comes to the list of millionaires and billionaires, many African Americans have booked a spot on the list.
From the media industry to sports, fashion, music, and business, wealthy African Americans are leading the industries. The best thing is that most of these famous personalities secured the spot through their efforts. In short, they are self-made people who are making us proud!
Excited to know about the 10 richest African Americans on the planet? Then let’s take a look at our curated list.
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ToggleRobert F. Smith
Robert Frederick Smith tops the list with his net worth of $8 billion. Originally a chemical engineer, he achieved financial freedom through investments. Also, he is working as the CEO of Vista Equity Partners.
He is a well-known philanthropist who generously donates to good causes around the globe. Not to forget, he supports several colleges and offers scholarships to bright and deserving students. Time’s magazine added him to the list of 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2020.
David Steward
As of 2022, David Steward’s net worth is $6 billion. Steward started his career as a production manager. Later, he worked as a salesperson for many years where he received several accolades for his success. But his biggest achievement was laying the foundation of World Wide Technology in 1990.
He is currently serving as the Founding Chairman of the company. Further, he is a famous philanthropist and participates in local politics too.
Oprah Winfrey
Our beloved Oprah Winfrey is the third richest African American with a net worth of $2.5 billion. Considering her success and popularity, it’s not surprising.
The Queen of Media’s most famous talk show was The Oprah Winfrey Show. Oprah is a well-known media personality who never shies away from speaking for common people. Also, her struggles in life depict a true rags-to-riches story.
Jay-Z
Shawn Corey Carter or Jay-Z is a household name when it comes to the music industry. He made his name as a Hip Hop artist shortly after his debut in 1980. His net worth currently stands at $2.5 billion and he is one of the richest African Americans.
Aside from music, Jay-Z made his fortune with his businesses. Ventures such as Roc-A-Fella Records, Rocawear, 40/40 Club, and Roc Nation helped Shawn Carter become a successful businessman.
Michael Jordan
With a net worth of around $2 billion, Michael Jordan is one of the most famous African American billionaires. The Greatest All-Time basketball player played a major role in the growth of NBA competitions.
Since his retirement in 2003, Jordan launched several ventures. This includes Jordan Clothing and investment in a sports betting company called DraftKings. Further, he owns teams in motorsports, basketball, and NASCAR racing events.
Alexander Karp
Alexander Karp is the fifth richest person on the list with a net worth of $1.4 billion. He is an American businessman and the co-founder and CEO of Palantir Technologies, a prominent data analytics and AI company.
Palantir Technologies does contractual work for the US government, the FBI, and the Danish National Police.
Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods is a legendary American professional golfer with a net worth of $1.1 billion. The 7th personality on the list of the richest African Americans rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s and was known for his incredible skills and dominance on the golf course.
During his career, he signed endorsement deals with Nike, Gatorade, and Rolex. Also, Woods launched his golf course design company, TGR Design, and was involved in the restaurant business with his franchise, “The Woods”.
Lebron James
LeBron James has a net worth estimated at $1.1 billion. The iconic NBA player’s wealth primarily comes from basketball contracts and endorsements with renowned brands like Nike and Coca-Cola.
James also launched his business ventures such s SpringHill Entertainment and invested in the Liverpool Football Club. His exceptional basketball skills and entrepreneurial endeavors have propelled him to become one of the wealthiest and most influential athletes in the world.
Tyler Perry
Tyler Perry is another African American billionaire with a net worth of $1 billion. He is a fan-favorite actor, writer, producer, and director. In 2010-11, he was the highest-paid man in the media industry.
From stage to films and TV shows, Perry’s presence works as a guarantee for success. In 2012, he became a partner in Oprah Winfrey’s OWN network. Also, he is the proud owner of Tyler Perry Studios. It’s a 330-acre property where he writes, records, and produces and owns 100% of his content.
Sean Combs
P. Diddy or Puff Daddy is worth over $1 billion in 2023. He is a record producer, rapper, and entrepreneur. He has sustained popularity and elite entrepreneur status since his first produced albums reached the height of popularity and he sold a record number of copies.
Apart from his musical career, Combs also gained success with his clothing brand, Sean John. Also, he manages or has invested in multiple businesses. This includes Combs Enterprises, Justin’s restaurant chain, Enyce clothing, PlayVS, and Revolt TV. His successful career earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2008.
The racial gap in the US is a reality. But these famous Black personalities claimed their well-deserved success with hard work and strategy and made it as some of the richest African Americans. So, we can learn from them and take the right actions to build wealth.
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