The cellist is among 250 foreign-born figures recognised by Forbes for their achievements and impact in the United States
Cellist Yo-Yo Ma has been included in Forbes’ newly released ’Immigrant 250’ list, which recognises 250 foreign-born individuals who have achieved significant success in the United States.
The list, published on 10 June 2026, forms part of the Forbes 250 initiative marking 250 years of the United States. It highlights immigrants from a range of fields, including business, science, entertainment and sport. The list is intended to recognise the role immigrants have played in shaping American society and economy.
The rankings are based on criteria such as net worth, professional achievements, leadership, influence and overall impact. More than half of those named are billionaires, though the list also includes cultural figures and public figures whose impact extends beyond financial measures.
Ma, who is ranked 25th on the list, appears among a group of cultural figures recognised for their contributions to the arts and entertainment sector. Others in this category include Ryan Reynolds, Lorne Michaels and Wolfgang Puck.
Born in Paris to Chinese parents, Ma moved to the United States as a child and has become one of the world’s best-known classical musicians. He was recognised for his performance at the age of seven for President John F. Kennedy, and has since enjoyed a highly successful performing and recording career, with 20 Grammy Awards to his name.
The broader list includes high-profile figures from across industries, such as Elon Musk, Sergey Brin, Jensen Huang and Indra Nooyi, as well as scientists and public officials, and businessman Arnold Schwarzenegger, who tops the list.
The publication plans to host a celebration for honourees in New York in September 2026, tied to Citizenship Day and Constitution Day.
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