The child of a school teacher and a farmer, Robert L. Johnson went from humble beginnings in Hickory, Mississippi to making history as the first African American billionaire. After graduating from the University of Illinois in 1968 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Studies, Johnson went on to receive a Master’s in Public Affairs from Princeton University in 1972. In his professional career, Robert L. Johnson founded Black Entertainment Network and The RLJ Companies, a holding company with a portfolio including real estate investment, automobile dealerships, financial services, asset management, sports and entertainment and more. He is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Our Monday Motivation series was created to highlight the many stories of successful black entrepreneurs that we don’t see in the media. Each week we will feature a new black entrepreneur from various countries around the world to inspire those hoping to follow in their footsteps.

OBWS Team