Success comes in many forms, but for these women, it’s written in the bold ink of history, culture, and business. They are artists, athletes, investors, pioneers, and trailblazers who broke barriers and turned ambition into empires.
From entertainment moguls who shaped global culture to entrepreneurs who built industries in male-dominated spaces, these women continue to inspire millions across the world. Let’s take a look at the top 10 richest Black women in the world in 2025 and the powerful stories behind their success.
Oprah Winfrey — Media Icon & Cultural Titan
Oprah is more than just wealthy; she’s a symbol of possibility. From humble beginnings in Mississippi, she built a media empire that redefined talk shows and inspired millions. Today, with a net worth of around $3 billion, her influence spans television, film production, publishing, and philanthropy. She owns Harpo Productions, created the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), and continues to invest in education and empowerment programs across the world.
Rihanna – From Superstar to Business Mogul
Rihanna is living proof that creativity and business can merge beautifully. With a net worth of $1.4 billion, she’s not just the hit-making singer behind “Diamonds” but also the founder of Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty. Her makeup line disrupted the industry with its inclusive range of products, and her lingerie brand celebrates body diversity. She’s also expanding into haircare and continues to surprise the world as both an artist and an entrepreneur.
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Sheila Johnson – Media Pioneer & Hospitality Powerhouse
Sheila Johnson co-founded BET (Black Entertainment Television), the first cable network aimed at African-American audiences, making her the first Black female billionaire in the U.S. Worth about $1 billion, she has since ventured into luxury hospitality with Salamander Hotels & Resorts. A true sports enthusiast, she co-owns several professional sports teams in Washington, D.C., including the Wizards (NBA), Capitals (NHL), and Mystics (WNBA).
Folorunso Alakija – Nigeria’s Oil & Fashion Vanguard
Alakija’s story is one of resilience and brilliance. Starting out in fashion, she designed clothing for Nigeria’s elite before moving into oil exploration. As vice chair of Famfa Oil, she has built a fortune of around $1 billion. Beyond her business endeavors, she is a philanthropist, supporting educational and healthcare initiatives across Nigeria. Her journey shows the power of reinvention and courage in male-dominated industries.
Isabel dos Santos – Africa’s Investment Titan
Often dubbed Africa’s richest woman, Isabel dos Santos has an estimated net worth of $2 billion. The daughter of Angola’s former president, she has invested heavily in telecommunications, banking, and media. Although her wealth has been surrounded by legal battles and controversy, her role as one of Africa’s most prominent female entrepreneurs cannot be overlooked.
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Ngina Kenyatta – Kenya’s Land & Dairy Heiress
Known as “Mama Ngina,” she is the matriarch of Kenya’s first family and has built a fortune estimated at $1 billion. Her wealth comes from vast land holdings, shares in major companies, and large investments in banking, dairy farming, and hospitality. She is also recognized for her quiet but steady role in Kenyan politics and influence as a businesswoman.
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter – Music Royalty & Brand Builder
Beyoncé has proven time and again that she’s more than a global superstar; she’s a savvy businesswoman. With a net worth of $826 million, she has built streams of income from music, tours, and brand partnerships. Her Ivy Park fashion line with Adidas, film projects, and Netflix production deals are proof of her business acumen. Beyond the spotlight, she’s a philanthropist and advocate for women’s rights, equity, and social justice.
Janice Bryant Howroyd – Staffing Empire Founder
Janice Bryant Howroyd is a trailblazer in corporate America. As the founder and CEO of ActOne Group, she became the first African-American woman to run a billion-dollar business. ActOne provides staffing and workforce solutions to companies around the globe. With decades of experience, Janice has built her fortune while also mentoring young entrepreneurs and advocating for diversity in business leadership.
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Serena Williams – Tennis Legend to Investment Maven
Serena Williams is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time, holding 23 Grand Slam titles. But beyond the court, she has built a business empire worth nearly $260 million. Through Serena Ventures, she invests in startups, many led by women and people of color. She’s also a fashion entrepreneur, a brand ambassador for major global companies, and a philanthropist promoting education and community development.
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Hajia Bola Shagaya – Nigeria’s Finance & Fashion Pioneer
Hajia Bola Shagaya, with a fortune estimated at $950 million, is a prominent Nigerian businesswoman. Her wealth comes from investments in oil trading, banking, real estate, and fashion distribution across West Africa. She is known for her influential networks and contributions to Nigeria’s economic development, particularly in finance and entrepreneurship.
