Black History Month and the Private Market: Celebrating 5 trailblazing black leaders
As Forge celebrates Black History Month, it's essential to recognize and honor the significant contributions of black leaders who are shaping the private market landscape. Their innovative ventures and leadership not only drive economic growth but also pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse business environment. Here, we examine five trailblazing black leaders in the private market.
5 Trailblazing Black Leaders in the Private Market
Black entrepreneurs have been instrumental in launching and leading successful private companies across various industries. Their efforts have not only disrupted markets but also inspired future generations of business leaders. The following are five well-recognized black leaders that are making a significant impact on the private market and society.
- Tope Awotona: In 2013, through sheer grit, perseverance, and the complete emptying of his personal savings account, Awotona founded the well-known private software company, Calendly, which currently has a $3 billion valuation. As of 2025, Forbes recognized him as one of the richest black billionaires and he has been featured on the Forbes billionaires' list. The Calendly app has approximately 10 million+ users worldwide.
- Iman Abuzeid: In 2017, Abuzeid cofounded the healthcare hiring platform, Incredible Health, which has a current valuation of $1.65 billion. That propelled Abuzeid onto a small list of black female founders of companies worth more than $1 billion. Recently, Incredible Health was featured on the TIME100 NEXT list.
- Charley Moore: Moore founded Rocket Lawyer in 2008 to address the same problems his father faced: a lack of accessible legal advice and representation. The company experienced explosive growth nearly from the start, proving Moore's idea that justice could be better served once common people had access to the right tools. The company now operates worldwide with nearly 400+ employees and $100 million in annual revenue.
- David Steward: Steward is the founder and chairman of IT provider World Wide Technology (WWT). Steward grew up in the segregated South. Today, he is the majority owner of the $20 billion private company, whose customers include Citi, Verizon and the federal government. Steward ranked 344th on the Forbes list of worldwide billionaires in 2024 with an estimated personal net worth of $11.4 billion.
- Wemimo Abbey: Abbey is co-founder and co-CEO of Esusu, a private, New York-based fintech company that helps renters build their credit histories and scores by reporting rent payments to credit bureaus. More than 20,000 properties offer Esusu’s service and the company currently has a $1 billion valuation.
Celebrating Black History Month at Forge
This Black History Month, we celebrate the achievements of both black private market leaders, as well as black Forge employees who are helping create a more accessible private market. Their dedication and perspectives enrich our company culture and drive innovation. Collectively, their work exemplifies excellence and serves as an inspiration to all.
As we honor the leaders mentioned above and black Forge employees, we are grateful for their efforts to foster a private market that reflects the rich diversity of our society.
