The 10 Richest Black Women in the World in 2025
As of 2025, several Black women have achieved remarkable success across various industries, amassing significant wealth through entrepreneurship, entertainment, and investments. Here are the top ten richest Black women globally:
1. Oprah Winfrey
With a net worth of approximately $3.5 billion, Oprah Winfrey remains a media mogul and philanthropist. Her wealth stems from her ownership of Harpo Productions, the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), and her influential media presence.
Winfrey’s philanthropic efforts, including the Oprah Winfrey Foundation, have significantly impacted education and empowerment initiatives.
2. Isabel dos Santos
Isabel dos Santos, the daughter of Angola’s former president, has a net worth of around $2.5 billion. She has investments in various sectors, including telecommunications, energy, and banking, primarily through her company, Unitel. Dos Santos has faced legal challenges regarding her business dealings but remains a prominent figure in African business.
3. Rihanna
Rihanna’s net worth is estimated at $1.7 billion, making her one of the wealthiest female musicians.
Her wealth is largely attributed to her successful music career and her ventures in the fashion and beauty industries, notably her Fenty Beauty line. Rihanna continues to expand her business empire, solidifying her status as a global entrepreneur.
4. Ngina Kenyatta
Ngina Kenyatta, known as Mama Ngina, is the widow of Kenya’s first president, Jomo Kenyatta.
Her net worth is estimated at $1.6 billion, derived from her family’s extensive investments in agriculture, real estate, and banking. She is also recognized for her philanthropic contributions to education and healthcare in Kenya.
5. Folorunsho Alakija
Folorunsho Alakija, a Nigerian businesswoman, has a net worth of approximately $1.5 billion. She made her fortune in the oil industry through her company, Famfa Oil, and has diversified into fashion and printing.
Alakija is also known for her philanthropic work, particularly in education and healthcare.
6. Sheila Johnson
Sheila Johnson, co-founder of Black Entertainment Television (BET), has a net worth of around $700 million. Beyond her media ventures, she is the founder and CEO of Salamander Hotels & Resorts and has investments in sports teams. Johnson is also a philanthropist, supporting various causes, including education and the arts.
7. Janice Bryant Howroyd
Janice Bryant Howroyd, founder of ActOne Group, a staffing agency, has a net worth of approximately $900 million. She is recognized as one of the most successful Black women in business, with her company operating in multiple countries. Howroyd is also a philanthropist, focusing on education and workforce development.
8. Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s net worth is estimated at $800 million, derived from her successful music career, business ventures, and investments. She has released multiple bestselling albums and singles, and has sold over 150 million records worldwide. Beyoncé has investments in several ventures including Tidal, a music streaming service, and owns shares in Uber and WTRMLN WTR, a healthy beverage company.
9. Wendy Appelbaum
Wendy Appelbaum, a South African businesswoman, has a net worth of around $300 million.
She is the founder of the Delfin Group, a private equity firm specializing in retail, leisure, and property investments.
Appelbaum is also known for her philanthropic efforts, focusing on women’s empowerment and education.
10. Hajia Bola Shagaya
Hajia Bola Shagaya, a Nigerian businesswoman, has a net worth of over $1.5 billion.
She is the founder and CEO of Bolmus Group International, a conglomerate with interests in real estate, printing, and oil and gas. Shagaya is also known for her philanthropic work, supporting education and healthcare initiatives.
