The global billionaire rankings continue to shift, but the latest Forbes list for 2025 highlights a powerful group of 23 Black billionaires whose influence stretches across industries from cement to technology, sports, entertainment, and finance. This year’s list carries familiar names and new entrants, underscoring how Black wealth creation continues to expand globally. Here is a detailed look at the list, starting from number 23 up to number 1.
23. Sheila Johnson – $1 billion
Sheila Johnson makes her debut on the list with a fortune built on cable television and hospitality. As cofounder of BET, she helped revolutionise Black media before selling the network to Viacom. Today, her Salamander Collection of hotels and resorts has become a key driver of her wealth. Johnson also holds minority stakes in Washington’s major sports franchises, including the Mystics, Wizards, and Capitals.
22. Michael Lee-Chin – $1.1 billion
The Jamaican-born Canadian investor built his wealth through strategic bets in finance. He made his mark with AIC Limited before selling it in 2009, but his large stake in National Commercial Bank Jamaica remains central to his portfolio. Lee-Chin has long been a visible symbol of Caribbean entrepreneurial success on the global stage.
21 . Herriot Tabuteau – $1.1 billion
Herriot Tabuteau, a newcomer to the list, owes his fortune to healthcare innovation. He founded Axsome Therapeutics in 2012, aiming to address brain disorders with pioneering treatments. His ownership stake in the company has propelled him into the billionaire ranks, reflecting the growing influence of Black executives in biotech.
20. Strive Masiyiwa – $1.2 billion
Zimbabwean entrepreneur Strive Masiyiwa founded Econet in 1993 and transformed it into a pan-African telecom powerhouse. Beyond business, he has become a respected voice in philanthropy and governance, sitting on boards including Netflix and the Gates Foundation. His influence cuts across both business and policy.
19. Mohammed Ibrahim – $1.3 billion
Known for his role in African telecoms, Mo Ibrahim made his fortune from Celtel, which he sold in 2005 for $3.4 billion. Since then, he has focused on promoting good governance in Africa through the Mo Ibrahim Foundation. His billion-dollar fortune remains a testament to both business success and social commitment.
18 . LeBron James – $1.3 billion
LeBron James continues to dominate both on and off the court. The NBA star has built a diversified fortune through endorsements, investments, and media ventures. As the first active player to reach billionaire status, James combines sports excellence with savvy business strategy.
17. Tope Awotona – $1.4 billion
Born in Lagos and raised in the United States, Tope Awotona turned a simple frustration with scheduling into a billion-dollar company. His firm, Calendly, has become a go-to tool in the digital economy. Awotona’s success highlights the global reach of Nigerian entrepreneurial talent.
16. Tyler Perry – $1.4 billion
The American filmmaker and entrepreneur has turned storytelling into a business empire. His Madea franchise and ownership of a vast film studio in Atlanta anchor his wealth. Perry’s stake in BET+ also positions him as a major player in entertainment streaming.
15. Tiger Woods – $1.4 billion
Tiger Woods, one of the most decorated golfers in history, remains a financial force. His wealth is built less on prize winnings and more on decades of endorsement deals, especially with Nike. Despite setbacks, Woods continues to rank among the most influential athletes in history.
14 . Rihanna – $1.4 billion
Rihanna leveraged her global music fame into a cosmetics powerhouse with Fenty Beauty. The brand, in partnership with LVMH, has been the main driver of her fortune. From Barbados to global boardrooms, Rihanna remains a cultural and business icon.
13. Magic Johnson – $1.5 billion
The NBA legend turned businessman has built a diverse portfolio. His 60% stake in Equitrust Life Insurance is a cornerstone of his fortune. He also owns equity stakes in major sports franchises, including the Los Angeles Dodgers and Washington Commanders.
12 . Femi Otedola – $1.5 billion
Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola shifted from oil trading into energy infrastructure. As chairman of Geregu Power, he has positioned himself at the centre of Nigeria’s electricity market. His influence extends beyond business, as he has become a prominent figure in philanthropy and politics.
11. Adebayo Ogunlesi – $2.2 billion
Adebayo Ogunlesi, once dubbed “the man who bought Gatwick Airport,” is a force in global infrastructure finance. His firm, Global Infrastructure Partners, was recently acquired by BlackRock for $12.5 billion, cementing his reputation as a financial powerhouse.
10. Jay-Z – $2.5 billion
From music to fashion to liquor brands, Jay-Z has built one of the most diverse fortunes in entertainment. His ventures, including Armand de Brignac champagne and D’Usse cognac, continue to grow in value. The rapper turned mogul has redefined what it means to be a hip-hop billionaire.
9. Patrice Motsepe – $3 billion
South African mining magnate Patrice Motsepe built African Rainbow Minerals into one of Africa’s leading mining companies. His fortune also funds philanthropic initiatives, including significant contributions to education and healthcare.
8. Oprah Winfrey – $3 billion
Oprah Winfrey remains a household name decades after ending her talk show. Her media investments, particularly through OWN and her film projects, underpin her wealth. She is one of the most recognisable self-made women in the world.
7. Michael Jordan – $3.5 billion
The NBA legend has outpaced most athletes in business. His landmark deal with Nike made Air Jordans a cultural staple, and the sale of his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets further boosted his fortune. Jordan remains one of the richest athletes in history.
6. Abdulsamad Rabiu – $5.1 billion
The founder of BUA Group has built a diversified empire in cement, sugar, and real estate. Rabiu continues to play a key role in Nigeria’s industrial landscape. His philanthropic efforts through the Abdul Samad Rabiu Initiative reinforce his reputation as both a businessman and benefactor.
5. Mike Adenuga – $6.8 billion
Adenuga is one of Africa’s most influential businessmen. His telecom company, Globacom, is Nigeria’s second-largest mobile operator, while Conoil remains a major player in oil exploration. His resilience in business has made him a fixture on the billionaire list.
4. Alexander Karp – $8.4 billion
As CEO of Palantir Technologies, Alexander Karp sits at the intersection of technology and government. His company provides data analytics solutions to agencies worldwide, and its strong stock market performance has lifted his personal fortune.
3. Robert F. Smith – $10.8 billion
Smith remains the wealthiest Black private equity executive. Vista Equity Partners, which he founded in 2000, manages over $100 billion in assets. His focus on software investments has proven remarkably successful, placing him firmly among the top Black billionaires.
2. David Steward – $11.4 billion
David Steward’s World Wide Technology employs nearly 10,000 people and generates $20 billion in annual revenue. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming the richest Black American reflects the transformative power of tech entrepreneurship.
1. Aliko Dangote – $23.9 billion
Aliko Dangote continues to hold the crown as the richest Black person in the world. The Nigerian industrialist’s wealth surged following the start of operations at the Dangote Refinery in 2024. With cement, sugar, and oil under his belt, Dangote’s empire defines African business ambition.
This year’s list not only tracks wealth but also demonstrates the influence of Black entrepreneurs, investors, athletes, and entertainers across continents. The rankings highlight how wealth creation is increasingly diverse, spanning from software and private equity to hospitality and sports ownership.
