Though not a household name in the UK, Carlos Alman’s life has become the subject of much curiosity due to his connection as the father of international music superstar Cardi B. His journey—marked by immigration, hard work, and family resilience—echoes themes relevant to many British readers navigating their own family and career stories in times of rapid change.
Early Life in the Dominican Republic
Carlos Alman was born on 19 March 1958 in the Dominican Republic. His formative years were shaped by Dominican culture, traditions, and close family bonds. Growing up in a country known for its vibrant music, food, and sense of community left a lasting influence on Carlos, which he later passed on to his children.
As opportunities for growth remained limited in his hometown, Carlos eventually made the pivotal decision to immigrate to the United States. Like many before him, he faced challenges adapting to a new country while striving to preserve his heritage and create a stable future for his family.
Building a Life in New York City
Upon relocating to the Bronx, New York, Carlos Alman worked tirelessly as a taxi driver, a profession that demanded long hours and relentless determination. For nearly nine years, he navigated the city’s bustling streets, facing difficult shifts and unpredictable economic conditions. The taxi driving industry, plagued by the rise of ride-sharing companies, presented obstacles including reduced wages and job insecurity—experiences mirrored by many in the UK’s own shifting transport and labour markets.
Despite setbacks, Carlos’ dedication to his family never wavered. He worked to ensure his children, especially Cardi B and Hennessy Carolina, could take advantage of opportunities he never had. His experience as an immigrant worker resonates strongly with British communities built on diversity and perseverance.
Preserving Dominican Heritage
Carlos Alman remained committed to maintaining his Dominican heritage throughout his life in America. He introduced his children to traditional cuisine, music, and cultural practices—such as mondongo and family gatherings. Cardi B herself has spoken of her father’s influence in interviews, celebrating the role Dominican culture played in her upbringing.
Family bonds and respect were central values, even as Carlos experienced separation from his wife, Clara Almanzar, in 2005. Despite their divorce, he stayed a present and supportive figure in the lives of his children, acting as both a provider and a cultural mentor.

Daily Realities of a Bronx Taxi Driver
Carlos Alman spent almost nine years driving a taxi in New York City after immigrating from the Dominican Republic in 1990. The job involved long hours and physical stress, navigating busy urban traffic and contending with the unpredictable financial landscape that traditional drivers increasingly faced due to rising ride-share competition. Health concerns from prolonged sitting and occupational hazards were persistent challenges for Carlos, reflecting the struggles of urban transport workers globally.
Adapting to Family Life Amid Financial Pressures
Carlos’ work ethic was central to ensuring that his children—most famously Cardi B—could access opportunities beyond the reach of his own upbringing. Despite income pressures, he prioritized cultural traditions and shared Dominican heritage at home, helping his children maintain pride in their roots. The separation from his wife Clara in 2005 was another turning point, requiring adaptation and continued involvement in his daughters’ lives despite family changes.
Life Away From Fame
Carlos Alman has never pursued celebrity status. Instead, he deliberately maintains a private existence, keeping out of the entertainment spotlight despite his daughter’s global success. Cardi B has even publicly asked for his privacy to be respected, highlighting the importance of security and well-being over public exposure.
His reluctance to chase fame reflects a broader trend in British society, where parents and families often prefer privacy and modesty, resisting pressures for social media visibility.
Family Relationships and Influence
Carlos Alman is the biological father of Cardi B and Hennessy Carolina, as well as several other children from previous relationships. The family dynamic is characterised by strong ties and mutual respect. Cardi B’s rise from the Bronx to international stardom has drawn frequent attention to her parents, but Carlos remains steadfast in his commitment to supporting his children without taking personal credit.
He nurtured his children’s aspirations with practical advice and a firm sense of cultural identity—a role model widely admired in both immigrant and British communities.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
His life, built on hard work, resilience, and dedication to family, offers a compelling template for success in today’s diverse and challenging world. For UK readers, his legacy resonates with those seeking to understand the hidden forces that shape public figures: behind every celebrity is a family story marked by sacrifice and strength.
Conclusion: Quiet Strength in a Changing World
Carlos Alman reminds us that behind the achievements of public personalities are families and parents whose toil and values lay the groundwork for future generations. His quiet life, rooted in Dominican tradition and defined by perseverance, stands as a testament to the power of cultural heritage and personal determination—values increasingly celebrated in contemporary Britain. His story encourages reflection on what truly matters: family, community, and the dignity found in work.
Read more: june baranco


