The rise of Black billionaires in 2025 signifies a new era of empowerment and entrepreneurship. From industry giants like Aliko Dangote to groundbreaking moguls like Rihanna, these individuals are not just building empires—they’re reshaping industries, driving innovation, and leaving lasting impacts on the global economy. Bizmart List explores the top 21 Black billionaires of 2025, detailing their sources of wealth, their influence, and how they’ve navigated challenges to achieve success.
These leaders come from diverse backgrounds and industries, but all share one thing in common: a vision that transcends boundaries. Their stories offer valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, showing what’s possible with determination, strategic thinking, and hard work.
1. Aliko Dangote – The Industrial Powerhouse
Net Worth: $23.9 billion
Source of Wealth: Cement, Sugar, Oil
Citizenship: Nigeria
Aliko Dangote continues to be the wealthiest Black billionaire in 2025. His empire, Dangote Group, spans cement production, sugar refining, and oil exploration. The Dangote Refinery, which is the world’s largest single-train refinery, has significantly boosted his wealth. This project alone is a game-changer for Nigeria’s energy sector and has cemented Dangote’s position as one of Africa’s most influential industrialists.
Impact: Dangote’s contributions to Nigeria’s industrialization have not only created jobs but also driven major economic growth across Africa, with his refinery poised to revolutionize the energy landscape.
2. David Steward – IT Pioneer and Entrepreneur
Net Worth: $11.4 billion
Source of Wealth: IT Services
Citizenship: United States
David Steward is the co-founder of World Wide Technology (WWT), one of the largest Black-owned tech firms in the world. The company provides IT solutions to Fortune 500 companies, generating close to $20 billion annually. Steward’s success in tech showcases the immense potential of Black entrepreneurs in the information technology sector.
Impact: WWT has played a pivotal role in driving technological transformation, and Steward’s leadership is an inspiring example of Black entrepreneurship in the tech industry.
3. Robert F. Smith – Private Equity Visionary
Net Worth: $10.8 billion
Source of Wealth: Private Equity
Citizenship: United States
Robert F. Smith is the founder of Vista Equity Partners, a private equity firm that focuses on investing in software companies. Smith’s firm has grown to manage over $100 billion in assets, making him one of the wealthiest Black billionaires globally. Smith has also made significant contributions to philanthropic causes, particularly in supporting education for African-American students.
Impact: Smith’s leadership in private equity has helped reshape the software industry, and his charitable initiatives continue to improve access to education for underserved communities.
4. Tyler Perry – Entertainment Mogul and Filmmaker
Net Worth: $1.4 billion
Source of Wealth: Movies, Television
Citizenship: United States
Tyler Perry is a pioneer in the entertainment industry. Known for creating the Madea film franchise, Perry also owns Tyler Perry Studios, making him the first Black person to own a major Hollywood studio. His wealth spans movies, TV productions, and real estate investments, and his ownership of intellectual property has proven to be a game-changer in Hollywood.
Impact: Perry’s success has set a new precedent for Black creators in Hollywood, demonstrating the value of owning content and transforming the media landscape.
5. Rihanna – Music Icon and Beauty Mogul
Net Worth: $1.4 billion
Source of Wealth: Music, Cosmetics (Fenty Beauty)
Citizenship: Barbados
Rihanna’s transformation into a billionaire mogul is an example of how talent, vision, and business savvy can create lasting wealth. Fenty Beauty, her inclusive cosmetics line, has disrupted the beauty industry, generating millions in revenue. Rihanna’s ventures extend to fashion, music, and real estate, making her one of the wealthiest self-made women globally.
Impact: Rihanna’s commitment to inclusivity in beauty has set a new industry standard, empowering women of all skin tones to find products that work for them.
6. Michael Jordan – Basketball Legend and Investor
Net Worth: $3.5 billion
Source of Wealth: Sports, Endorsements
Citizenship: United States
Michael Jordan’s wealth extends beyond his legendary basketball career. Through investments in Nike, his stake in the Charlotte Hornets, and numerous other ventures, Jordan has built a multi-billion-dollar empire. His global brand continues to thrive, with endorsement deals and business partnerships contributing to his wealth.
Impact: Jordan has set a new benchmark for athletes seeking to build wealth through investments, branding, and diversified business ventures.
7. Strive Masiyiwa – Telecom Pioneer and Philanthropist
Net Worth: $1.2 billion
Source of Wealth: Telecom
Citizenship: Zimbabwe
Strive Masiyiwa is the founder of Econet Wireless, a leading telecom company in Africa. Masiyiwa’s company has transformed mobile services and internet access across the continent, reaching millions. He is also a philanthropist, focusing on education and healthcare initiatives in Africa.
Impact: Masiyiwa’s work in telecom has provided essential communication services to underserved populations, fostering economic growth and digital inclusion across Africa.
8. Patrice Motsepe – Mining Magnate
Net Worth: $3 billion
Source of Wealth: Mining
Citizenship: South Africa
Patrice Motsepe is the founder of African Rainbow Minerals, a diversified mining company involved in the production of gold, platinum, and other metals. Motsepe has also expanded into banking, energy, and real estate, creating a vast business empire. His wealth is complemented by his philanthropic efforts in healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation.
Impact: Motsepe’s leadership in mining and his focus on corporate social responsibility have helped drive growth in South Africa and across the African continent.
9. Oprah Winfrey – Media Mogul and Entrepreneur
Net Worth: $3 billion
Source of Wealth: TV Shows, Media
Citizenship: United States
Oprah Winfrey’s media empire is one of the most successful in history. From her talk show to the OWN Network, Oprah has built a multi-billion-dollar business through television and media. She has also made strategic investments in real estate and publishing and is known for her philanthropic efforts.
Impact: Oprah’s influence in media has paved the way for more diverse representation in entertainment, and her philanthropy continues to empower millions.
10. Jay-Z – Hip-Hop Mogul and Business Icon
Net Worth: $2.5 billion
Source of Wealth: Music, Fashion, Business
Citizenship: United States
Jay-Z is the first rapper to achieve billionaire status, and his wealth spans multiple industries. From his music career to investments in fashion (Rocawear), liquor (Armand de Brignac), and real estate, Jay-Z has built a diversified portfolio. His ability to turn creative ventures into long-term wealth has set a standard for artists seeking to build legacies beyond music.
Impact: Jay-Z’s success in music, fashion, and business highlights how artists can leverage their brand to build wealth and influence across industries.
11. Adebayo Ogunlesi – Private Equity Leader
Net Worth: $2.2 billion
Source of Wealth: Private Equity
Citizenship: United States
Adebayo Ogunlesi is the chairman and CEO of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a private equity firm that invests in infrastructure projects worldwide. GIP has made significant investments in energy, transportation, and utilities, shaping the future of global infrastructure.
Impact: Ogunlesi’s firm has played a crucial role in infrastructure development, improving global connectivity and access to essential services.
12. Magic Johnson – Entrepreneur and Former NBA Star
Net Worth: $1.5 billion
Source of Wealth: Basketball, Investments
Citizenship: United States
Magic Johnson has built an empire after retiring from basketball, investing in movie theaters, Starbucks franchises, and sports teams. His focus on investing in minority communities has created wealth and job opportunities for underserved populations.
Impact: Johnson’s commitment to economic empowerment in Black communities has made a lasting impact, creating wealth in areas that were traditionally neglected.
13. Femi Otedola – Energy Tycoon
Net Worth: $1.5 billion
Source of Wealth: Energy, Utilities
Citizenship: Nigeria
Femi Otedola’s wealth is built on his investments in Nigeria’s energy sector, particularly through his company Geregu Power. Otedola has also diversified into real estate and finance, further increasing his wealth. His contributions to the energy industry play a key role in supporting Nigeria’s infrastructure.
Impact: Otedola’s work in energy is vital for addressing Nigeria’s power challenges, enabling economic growth and industrial development.
Conclusion
Bizmart List’s breakdown of the top Black billionaires of 2025 showcases the incredible achievements of these entrepreneurs. From telecom and tech to entertainment and energy, these individuals have built lasting empires, reshaped industries, and created new opportunities for the next generation of Black leaders. Their stories serve as powerful reminders of what is possible through innovation, perseverance, and strategic thinking.
As these billionaires continue to grow their wealth and influence, they are not only changing industries but inspiring millions to dream big and follow in their footsteps. Their legacies will shape the future of business and entrepreneurship for years to come.
Final Thoughts:
The continued rise of Black billionaires in 2025 reflects the increasing opportunities for Black entrepreneurs to lead, innovate, and build powerful business empires. Bizmart List’s analysis of these remarkable figures offers valuable insights into how they achieved success and highlights the critical impact they’ve made across various industries. Their stories of resilience and vision serve as inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.
