Clara Almánzar’s journey began as a former grocery store cashier, a role that may have been modest in the title but carried immeasurable significance in shaping her family’s destiny. With a background enriched by a sprawling family of 12 siblings, Clara’s own kinship reflected the value of close bonds. Similarly, her former husband’s lineage boasted a robust clan of eight siblings.
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Amidst this familial tapestry emerges the figure of Cardi B’s mother, Clara Almánzar. While the renowned singer maintains a veil of privacy over her personal life, she bestows glowing praises upon her mother. Their relationship, though not devoid of its share of challenges, has evolved into a close and enduring connection.
This exploration delves into the life of the woman who played an instrumental role in nurturing and guiding the Grammy award-winning musical prodigy that is Cardi B.
Table of Contents
Profile summary
Full name | Clara Mercedes Almánzar |
Gender | Female |
Date of birth | September 19, 1965 |
Age | 57 years old (as of June 2023) |
Zodiac sign | Virgo |
Current residence | New York, USA |
Nationality | Trinidadian |
Ethnicity | Afro-Latino (with Spanish and African roots) |
Sexuality | Straight |
Hair colour | Black |
Eye colour | Brown |
Marital status | Divorced |
Ex-husband | Carlos Almánzar (1991 to around 2005) |
Children | 2 |
Siblings | 12 |
Profession | Former grocery store cashier |
Who is Clara Almánzar?
Clara Almánzar stands as the mother of Cardi B, the renowned American rapper, and singer recognized by her birth name, Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar Cephus. With a birthdate of September 19, 1965, Clara Almánzar’s current age is 57. Her emergence into the public eye was catalyzed by her daughter’s extraordinary acclaim, positioning Cardi B as one of the music industry’s most accomplished and prosperous artists.
Clara Almánzar Career
While Cardi B now revels in wealth and triumph, her journey to success was paved with challenges. Originating from a modest economic background, her parents were engaged in what she referred to as “ordinary, modest occupations.” Clara Almánzar, her mother, diligently served as a cashier at a neighborhood grocery store in The Bronx, channeling her efforts to sustain the family’s needs.
In contrast, Clara’s husband, Cardi B’s father, pursued a profession as a taxi driver. Cardi B has openly shared that her mother, following their divorce, undertook the formidable feat of assuming two jobs to provide for the family’s sustenance. The sacrifices and determination of her parents played a pivotal role in shaping Cardi B’s trajectory toward her current affluence and accomplishments.
Where is Clara Almánzar from?
Clara Almánzar’s origin remains relatively limited in available information, particularly pertaining to her specific background. Nevertheless, insights into Cardi B’s parents shed light on their ethnicity and nationalities.
Cardi B’s mother’s nationality is commonly associated with Trinidad, presumably marking her birthplace before the family’s relocation to the United States. Her ethnic heritage is Afro-Latino, rooted in a blend of African and Spanish lineage.
In contrast, Cardi B’s father hails from the Dominican Republic. This diverse heritage gives rise to Cardi B’s multifaceted ethnicity, encompassing African, Spanish, Trinidadian, and Dominican ancestries. She proudly identifies herself as an Afro-Latino, embracing the richness of her diverse roots.
Clara Almánzar was Once Married to Carlos Almánzar
Clara Almánzar, once married to Carlos Almánzar, journeyed through matrimony to parent two daughters, Belcalis (Cardi B) and Hennessy. Despite their promising beginnings, the union faced turbulence that led to their divorce in 2005 when Cardi B was just thirteen.
Following the separation, Clara shouldered the responsibilities of raising her daughters in a low-income neighborhood in The Bronx, New York. As a devoted mother, she embraced various jobs, including a cashier role, to provide for her family’s needs, even amidst the challenges of a strict parenting approach and friction with her rebellious older daughter, Cardi B.
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Over time, her dedication has forged strong bonds, and her influence remains a significant force in her daughters’ successful journeys.
Meet Clara Almánzar’s Two Daughters
- Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar Cephus a.k.a Cardi B
The esteemed American rapper and singer, Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar Cephus, widely recognized by her stage name Cardi B, stands as the first offspring and daughter of Clara Almánzar and her former spouse, Carlos Almánzar. Her journey to fame initially commenced as a social media influencer on platforms like Instagram and the now-defunct Vine app.
The moniker ‘Cardi B’ holds an intriguing origin, stemming from her childhood days. Seeking a name akin to her younger sister, Hennessey, who bore the name of a popular beverage, Cardi B christened herself “Barcardi,” drawing from the renowned brand of white rum. Hennessey embraced the term and playfully addressed her sister as “Barcardi,” leading to the eventual adoption of ‘Cardi B’ as the rapper’s stage name.
- Hennessey Carolina
Hennessey Carolina, the second daughter born to Clara and Carlos Almánzar, traverses a multifaceted journey in the limelight. Recognized as a model, television personality, and social media influencer, Hennessey gained prominence as Cardi B’s sister. Notably, she graced the screens on “Love & Hip Hop: New York” alongside Cardi B, marking a presence for two seasons spanning 2016 to 2018.
Currently, Hennessey thrives in the realm of showbiz as a dynamic fashion designer. Her entrepreneurial spirit is further evident through the establishment of her own clothing line. Having transitioned from reality TV, she continues to shine as a former cast member of “Love & Hip Hop,” a reality TV series.
What happened to Cardi B?
Following her mother’s decision to eject her from home, Cardi B embarked on a transformative journey. She sought refuge with her boyfriend and ventured into the workforce by securing a position at a supermarket. However, her job tenure proved fleeting due to consistent lateness, resulting in her dismissal within a few months. Unemployed and entangled in an abusive relationship from which she sought an escape, she ultimately turned to the profession of stripping.
Despite Cardi B’s lack of remorse about her stint as a stripper, she chose to keep this facet of her life concealed from her mother, who upheld strict values. To maintain this ruse, she fabricated a tale of working as a babysitter, earning a substantial sum of up to $100 on a daily basis.
In an interview, the rapper revealed the explosive reaction of her mother upon discovering her involvement in stripping. The revelation incited intense anger within her mother, to the extent that she resorted to physical aggression.
Is Clara Almánzar closer to her daughters?
Clara’s bond with her daughter Cardi B underwent challenges in the past. Nevertheless, their relationship has since blossomed, and they now share a close connection. Photographs of the duo together have surfaced on multiple occasions, capturing moments like Clara assisting her daughter during childbirth. Cardi B even fulfilled her mother’s lifelong dream by gifting her a home.
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In addition, Clara Almánzar maintains a close relationship with her second daughter, Hennessy Carolina. While their journey wasn’t always smooth, particularly when Hennessy disclosed her sexual orientation, their relationship has evolved. In a subsequent interview, Hennessy expressed that she succeeded in warming her mother’s heart, leading to acceptance and a stronger bond between them.
Clara Almánzar’s Net Worth
The estimated net worth of Clara Almánzar is not publicly disclosed, making it challenging to provide an accurate estimation. While information about her financial status remains private, her renowned daughter, Cardi B, boasts a substantial net worth of $24 million, derived from her flourishing career as an entertainer and her influential presence on social media platforms.