Empowering Black Women: Forbes' Wealthiest Self-Made Women in the U.S.
Forbes has released its annual list of the wealthiest self-made women in the United States, featuring four influential Black women who have made significant strides in various industries such as fashion, retail, media, and entertainment. Among the notable names on the list are Oprah Winfrey, Sheila Johnson, Beyoncé, and Rihanna. To qualify for the list, these women had to have amassed their fortunes primarily in the U.S. and not have inherited their wealth, showcasing their resilience and determination in achieving success.
Rihanna and Beyoncé are tied at No. 39 on the list, with each boasting a net worth of $1 billion. Rihanna's Fenty Beauty brand played a pivotal role in propelling her to billionaire status, while Beyoncé's wealth is largely attributed to her successful music career, including lucrative tours and accolades like winning Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards in 2025. Both artists have solidified their positions as influential figures in their respective industries.
Sheila Johnson and Oprah Winfrey have been mainstays on the list for some time, with Johnson's wealth increasing to $1.2 billion after divesting from BET and investing in hotels, real estate, and sports teams. Oprah, the richest self-made Black woman in America, saw her net worth soar to $3.2 billion, thanks to her diversified ventures in television, production, and business. Her strategic moves, such as selling OWN to Warner Bros and acquiring shares in the company, have further boosted her wealth.
While the number of self-made male billionaires in the U.S. remains high, there is a growing presence of women on the billionaire list, signaling a shift in the landscape of wealth creation. The inclusion of more women, particularly Black women, highlights the increasing diversity and representation among the wealthiest individuals in the country. As the entrepreneurial spirit continues to thrive, it is likely that more Black women will join the ranks of the richest self-made women in the future.