Rollan Roberts II, an American businessman, government advisor, and former Republican candidate for the 2024 presidential election, has carved a notable path in business and diplomacy. Born on April 10, 1979, in Birmingham, Alabama, Roberts grew up in Beaver, West Virginia, where he began developing the values and vision that would later define his career. His academic journey reflects a diverse foundation—he earned a bachelor’s degree in Youth Ministry from Crown College in Tennessee, followed by a Master of Business Administration from Liberty University, and ultimately, a Doctorate of Business Administration from California Intercontinental University. This blend of spiritual, business, and academic training set the stage for a multifaceted career.
Roberts has built a reputation as a thought leader in economic development and global diplomacy. His work spans continents, with significant contributions to Africa and Asia, where he has collaborated with international leaders on initiatives focused on education, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. Through his entrepreneurial ventures, he founded several organizations, including Transform Africa, Rollan College, and The Water Mission, all of which reflect his commitment to creating solutions for pressing global challenges. These ventures emphasize cybersecurity, education, and clean water access, highlighting Roberts’ ability to bridge innovation with humanitarian needs.
One of his most high-profile roles is as President of the U.S. Center for Diplomacy, where Roberts leads efforts to address complex global issues. In 2017, he tackled intellectual property disputes and the U.S.-China trade relationship during an address at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, earning recognition as a skilled negotiator. He also worked with the South Sudanese government to stabilize its transition and was part of a team advising Ukraine on constitutional revisions. His diplomatic achievements earned him the honorary title of “His Excellency” from the International College of Peace Studies, cementing his role as a respected figure in international relations. However, Roberts’ career has not been without controversy. His announcement of his presidential candidacy in 2024 became a viral moment, though not for the reasons he might have hoped. During the event, his wife, Rebecca Lea Roberts, fainted on stage, drawing widespread media attention and public scrutiny. Critics questioned his seemingly delayed response to the situation, while others defended him, pointing out the swift intervention of aides nearby. The incident highlighted the intense public scrutiny that comes with a presidential bid and sparked conversations about the personal pressures faced by candidates and their families.
In addition to his diplomatic and entrepreneurial endeavors, Roberts has also made his mark as an author. His books, including Born to Be Rich: How to Become a Money Magnet by Living Life on Purpose and 88 Days to Any Goal: How to Create Crazy Success Fast, reflect his philosophy on leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. These works resonate with audiences seeking actionable insights and motivational guidance, further establishing Roberts as a voice of influence in the self-help and business sectors.
Roberts’ personal life is intertwined with his public image. He is married to Rebecca, with whom he has a son, Rollan III, born on July 4, 2023. He also has two daughters from a previous marriage, and his father, Rollan Roberts I, serves as a West Virginia State Senator, underscoring a family legacy of public service. This combination of professional success and personal connections has positioned Roberts as a complex figure—someone equally at ease navigating global diplomatic discussions and addressing the challenges of fatherhood and family life.
As a businessman, advisor, and leader, Roberts embodies a unique intersection of entrepreneurship and public service. His work, whether negotiating trade deals in Beijing, stabilizing governance in South Sudan, or addressing educational inequities through Transform Africa, reflects a commitment to creating tangible change. His presidential campaign may have been overshadowed by viral moments and media scrutiny, but it also underscored his desire to bring his global perspective to the national stage.
Roberts’ career and life demonstrate a relentless pursuit of solutions to complex problems, guided by a belief in the power of leadership and innovation. Whether through his books, his diplomatic missions, or his entrepreneurial ventures, Rollan Roberts II has left an indelible mark on both the business world and the global stage. While his path has been marked by both acclaim and controversy, it is clear that Roberts remains a steadfast advocate for progress, diplomacy, and economic empowerment.
