Black women across the globe continue to break barriers and redefine what it means to be influential and impactful in various fields. From politics and entertainment to business and philanthropy, their contributions resonate on a global scale, inspiring millions and shaping the course of history. In this article, we shine a spotlight on the top ten most powerful black women in the world, according to Forbes.
Top 10 Most Powerful Black Women in the World & Their Net Worth (2025)
From political figures to prominent businesswomen and artists, these are the Most powerful black women in the world.
1. Tarciana Paula Gomes Medeiros
Age 47
Nationality: Brazillian
Net Worth : unavailable
Tarciana Paula Gomes Medeiros is the most powerful Black woman on earth and the first woman to lead Banco do Brasil, Latin America’s second-largest and Brazil’s oldest bank. As CEO, she oversees one of the most influential financial institutions in the region, shaping the future of Brazil’s banking sector.
2. Oprah Winfrey
Age 71
Nationality: American
Net Worth : $3.2 billion
Oprah Winfrey is a cultural icon, media mogul, and philanthropist whose influence transcends borders and generations. With a career spanning decades, Winfrey has transformed the landscape of television and media, empowering millions through her groundbreaking talk show, “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” Beyond her unparalleled success in the entertainment industry, Winfrey has leveraged her platform to advocate for social justice, education, and empowerment, establishing herself as a powerful voice for change. Through her philanthropic endeavors, including the Oprah Winfrey Foundation and the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls, Winfrey has made significant contributions to improving the lives of marginalized communities around the world, cementing her legacy as one of the most influential figures of our time.
3. Beyonce Knowles
Age: 44
Nationality: American
Net Worth: $780 million
Beyond music, Beyoncé has established herself as a savvy businesswoman with ventures in fashion, film, and philanthropy. Through her activism and advocacy, including her support for causes such as Black Lives Matter and gender equality, Beyoncé continues to use her platform to effect positive change and inspire others to dream big.
According to Forbes, Beyonce is the 33rd most powerful woman in the world and the richest black female musician in the world.
4. Thasunda Brown Duckett
Age: 52
Nationality: American
Net Worth: unavailable
Thasunda Brown Duckett is a distinguished business leader, currently serving as President and CEO of TIAA, a renowned retirement and financial services company. Formerly CEO of Chase Consumer Banking at JPMorgan Chase, she oversaw a significant network and workforce. With a background at Fannie Mae, she focused on strategies to increase homeownership rates among minority groups. Brown Duckett is also active on several prestigious boards, including Nike and the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization. She is recognized as one of the most powerful black women globally.
5. Mary Vilakazi
Age: 48
Nationality: South African
Net Worth: unavailable
Mary Vilakazi, CEO of FirstRand Group, is recognized as the 5th most powerful Black woman in the world. Her leadership in South Africa’s banking sector has driven significant growth for FirstRand, making her a key figure in global finance. She’s also a strong advocate for gender equality and economic empowerment.
6. Judith Suminwa Tuluka
Age: 58
Nationality: DR Congo
Net Worth: unavailable
Judith Suminwa Tuluka is the Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, making history in 2024 as the first woman to ever hold the position. As the sixth most powerful Black woman in the world, her leadership is a groundbreaking achievement for both gender equality and Congolese politics.
7. Mpumi Madisa
Age: 46
Nationality: South African
Net Worth: unavailable
As the CEO of Bidvest Group, one of South Africa’s largest diversified industrial companies, Mpumi Madisa exemplifies resilience, innovation, and excellence in business leadership. With a background in finance and a keen understanding of the corporate landscape, Madisa has risen through the ranks to become one of the most influential figures in the African business world. Under her stewardship, Bidvest has continued to thrive, expanding its presence across sectors such as automotive, freight, and services. Madisa’s strategic vision and commitment to driving sustainable growth have earned her widespread acclaim and recognition as a trailblazer for women in corporate leadership.
8. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Age: 71
Nationality: Nigerian
Net Worth: unavailable
A global icon in economics and diplomacy, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the world stage. With an illustrious career spanning both the public and private sectors, Okonjo-Iweala has served as Nigeria’s Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, where she implemented far-reaching reforms and initiatives to foster economic growth and development. In 2021, she made history by becoming the first African and first woman to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO), where she continues to champion inclusive trade policies and advocate for the economic empowerment of women across the globe. Okonjo-Iweala’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to equity and justice make her a true trailblazer for women in Africa and beyond.
9. Mo Abudu
Age: 61
Nationality: Nigerian
Net Worth: unavailable
A pioneering figure in Africa’s media and entertainment industry, Mo Abudu has revolutionized the landscape with her innovative approach to storytelling and content creation. As the founder and CEO of EbonyLife Media, Abudu has been instrumental in producing groundbreaking films, television series, and talk shows that celebrate African culture and narratives. Through platforms such as EbonyLife TV, she has provided a voice for marginalized communities and amplified diverse perspectives on the global stage. Abudu’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to empowering African creatives have cemented her status as one of the most influential women in the continent’s media landscape.
10. Mia Mottley
Age: 60
Nationality: Barbados
Net Worth: unavailable
Mia Mottley made history in 2018 when she was elected as Barbados’ Prime Minister, becoming the first woman to hold the position. Her leadership extends beyond national boundaries, particularly in addressing climate change. Under her leadership, Barbados made significant political changes, transitioning to a parliamentary republic and removing the Queen of England as its head of state in November 2021. She currently holds the distinction of being ranked as the tenth most powerful black woman in the world.
Revised in December 2025
