Carlos Alman: The Man Behind Cardi B – A Father, Immigrant & Taxi Driver’s Journey

Carlos Alman, best known as the father of global rap icon Cardi B, is a name that may not dominate headlines, but holds immense significance in her life story. A quiet, hard-working immigrant from the Dominican Republic, Carlos represents the millions of fathers who sacrifice their dreams so their children can achieve theirs. While he has largely stayed out of the spotlight, his influence on Cardi B’s character, resilience, and cultural identity is undeniable.

This comprehensive biography delves into the life of Carlos Alman — from his early years in the Dominican Republic to his immigration journey, and from his career as a taxi driver to his role as a supportive parent. Along the way, we’ll explore the emotional, cultural, and personal milestones that shaped his life, and by extension, helped shape the superstar his daughter became.

Field	Details
Full Name	Carlos Alman
Known For	Father of Cardi B (Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar)
Profession	Taxi Driver
Nationality	Dominican
Ethnicity	Afro-Latino
Date of Birth	Estimated: Late 1950s or Early 1960s (Exact date not public)
Age (as of 2025)	Estimated 60–65 years old
Height	1.8 meters (5 feet 11 inches)
Partner	Clara Almanzar (Separated)
Children	Cardi B, Hennessy Carolina
Residence	Bronx, New York City, USA
Parents	Esperanza Almánzar
Languages Spoken	Spanish, English (assumed)
Public Presence	Low-profile, media-shy
Notable Contribution	Quiet influence on Cardi B’s upbringing and cultural identity

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Carlos Alman was born in the Dominican Republic, a nation known for its vibrant culture, music, and strong family traditions. Growing up in this Caribbean country, Carlos was raised with a strong work ethic and values rooted in community and perseverance. These formative years in the Dominican Republic would shape his character, teaching him humility and the importance of supporting one’s family above all else.

Although not much is publicly known about his early childhood, it’s evident that Carlos Alman carried with him a deep sense of responsibility, which later defined his life as a father and provider. His background also served as the cultural foundation for his children’s upbringing, especially in a multicultural environment like the Bronx, New York.

His story reflects the journey of many immigrants, bringing their dreams to a new land in hopes of giving their children a better future — something Carlos never took for granted.

Journey to the United States

Like many Dominicans seeking a better life, Carlos Alman immigrated to the United States in search of opportunity. Settling in the Bronx, a borough known for its cultural diversity and significant Dominican population, Carlos adjusted to life in a fast-paced and often difficult environment. He took on jobs that demanded hard work and long hours, the most consistent being as a New York City taxi driver.

Though not glamorous, this job symbolized his unyielding dedication to his family. Navigating the chaotic streets of New York, Carlos quietly helped keep his family afloat financially and emotionally. His story is one that reflects sacrifice, resilience, and the kind of love that shows itself not through words, but through action.

Meeting Clara Almanzar – A Relationship Built on Immigrant Dreams

Clara Almanzar and Carlos Alman met after Carlos had already settled in New York. Like him, Clara was also Dominican, and their shared background provided a natural bond. The couple eventually had two daughters: Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, who the world knows as Cardi B, and her younger sister, Hennessy Carolina.

Though Clara and Carlos eventually separated, their shared commitment to raising their daughters remained intact. The co-parenting dynamic between Clara and Carlos was a defining aspect of Cardi B’s upbringing, and both parents played pivotal roles in shaping the star’s outlook on life, family, and hard work.

Fatherhood and Family Life

Carlos Alman was not a public figure, and by all accounts, preferred to stay out of the limelight. But in the eyes of his daughters, especially Cardi B, he was an important and present figure. Despite working long hours as a cab driver, Carlos ensured he was available to support his family emotionally and financially.

Cardi B has spoken in various interviews about the role her parents played in her life. While she has often credited her mother, Clara, for her strong will, she has also acknowledged her father’s steady presence and moral guidance. His low-profile approach didn’t make him any less significant — it only highlighted his quiet strength.

Influence on Cardi B and Hennessy Carolina

Carlos Alman’s impact on his daughters is deeply ingrained in their identities. Cardi B’s outspoken nature, confidence, and resilience are all traits that trace back to her roots, influenced by both her mother and father. Her Dominican heritage, which Carlos helped instill, is something Cardi frequently references in her music, interviews, and public appearances.

Hennessy Carolina, Cardi’s younger sister and a known figure in her own right, has also expressed pride in her upbringing. Their father’s hard-working immigrant background served as a motivational force, shaping their drive to succeed in competitive industries like entertainment and fashion.

Relationship with Clara Almanzar and Carlos Alman

The connection between Clara Almanzar and Carlos Alman is rooted in shared history, values, and the responsibilities of co-parenting. While they separated when Cardi was young, both parents remained involved in their daughters’ lives, demonstrating a united front despite their differences.

The relationship is often described as amicable and grounded in mutual respect, especially when it came to decisions involving their children. Clara took on much of the day-to-day parenting, while Carlos contributed stability and support from behind the scenes — an often underappreciated but vital role.

Carlos Alman Nationality

Carlos Alman’s nationality is Dominican, and this identity plays a central role in his family’s cultural values. The Dominican Republic is a country of rich traditions, strong familial bonds, and a deep love for music and storytelling — elements that clearly influenced Cardi B’s personality and artistry.

His Dominican nationality also places him within a broader narrative of Latin American immigrants in the U.S. — hardworking, resilient individuals who contribute significantly to the social fabric of cities like New York. Carlos Alman represents a proud lineage, and his Dominican roots have been honored publicly by his children, especially Cardi B.

Carlos Alman Ethnicity

Carlos Alman is of Afro-Latino descent, a mix of African and Latino heritage that is common in the Dominican Republic. This ethnicity plays a powerful role in shaping his identity, as well as that of his children. Cardi B herself has frequently spoken about being Afro-Latina and the pride she takes in that identity.

Ethnic identity is deeply personal, and in Carlos’s case, it reflects a blend of histories, cultures, and traditions that have been passed down through generations. It’s a reminder of the diversity within the Latino community and highlights the complexity of cultural identity in modern America.

Carlos Alman Age

As of recent reports, Carlos Alman is believed to be in his late 50s or early 60s, though his exact birth year is not publicly disclosed. His age places him among a generation of Caribbean immigrants who came to the United States in the 1980s and 1990s, driven by economic necessity and the dream of a better life.

This generational context is important, as it frames his sacrifices and parenting decisions within the larger immigrant experience. His age also helps us understand the social values and work ethic he grew up with — values that he passed on to his children, who now live in a vastly different world.

Life as a Taxi Driver

Carlos Alman’s job as a New York City taxi driver may seem ordinary, but it represents something profound. For decades, he navigated one of the busiest cities in the world, working long, irregular hours to provide for his family. In doing so, he embodied the immigrant father archetype — silent, sturdy, and self-sacrificing.

Taxi driving was more than just a job; it was a means of survival and support. In a city where many struggle to make ends meet, Carlos built a life and helped raise successful, ambitious daughters. His career, though modest, was foundational to his family’s rise.

Private Nature and Media Avoidance

Despite being the father of one of the most famous music artists in the world, Carlos Alman has stayed out of the spotlight. He rarely appears in media, gives no interviews, and maintains a low profile. This privacy appears intentional and is consistent with the grounded, humble persona that those close to him describe.

This choice may also reflect his desire to preserve family dignity and separate his identity from the fame of his daughter. It’s a testament to his character — prioritizing peace over publicity and integrity over attention.

Connection to Dominican Roots

Carlos never forgot where he came from. Though he built a life in the U.S., his Dominican heritage remained deeply important to him. Whether through language, food, music, or values, Carlos ensured that his children were deeply connected to their Dominican roots.

This cultural connection not only shaped Cardi B and Hennessy’s identities but also helped them relate to a broader audience, particularly Afro-Latino and immigrant communities. His quiet pride in his homeland lives on through his children, who continue to celebrate their heritage publicly.

Legacy Through His Children

Carlos Alman may not be a public figure, but his legacy lives through Cardi B and Hennessy Carolina. Their success, grounded in authenticity and cultural pride, is a reflection of their upbringing. Carlos’s commitment to family, hard work, and quiet strength is evident in his daughters’ achievements.

His story is a reminder that you don’t have to be famous to make a lasting impact. Sometimes, the most powerful influences come from those who work behind the scenes, sacrificing daily for their families.

Relationship with His Daughters

Despite living apart after the separation from Clara, Carlos maintained a strong relationship with both Cardi B and Hennessy. He has been seen attending family gatherings, and Cardi B has shared moments with him on social media — usually in a lighthearted, affectionate way.

This bond reflects deep mutual respect and love, even though he avoided the spotlight. For Cardi, having her father around, even quietly, meant knowing she had a foundation of support no matter how far she soared.

Cultural Values and Parenting Style

Carlos’s parenting was rooted in Dominican cultural values — respect, hard work, humility, and family unity. These traits, passed on to his daughters, helped shape their strong personalities and fierce loyalty to family.

His low-key, consistent presence offered emotional stability during critical years in his daughters’ lives, allowing them to express themselves freely while feeling grounded in love and support. Carlos’s parenting reflects the balance between discipline and unconditional love.

Challenges Faced as an Immigrant Parent

Life was far from easy for Carlos Alman. Like many immigrants, he faced financial struggles, language barriers, and cultural adjustments, all while trying to raise children in a country very different from his own. These challenges required both mental and emotional strength.

Despite these hurdles, Carlos never gave up on his role as a father. His persistence and quiet sacrifice became the invisible engine behind his children’s eventual success, reminding us of the often-unseen battles immigrant parents fight every day.

Final Reflections on Carlos Alman

Carlos Alman’s life is a story of love, endurance, and legacy. He represents the everyday hero — the kind that doesn’t seek attention but deserves respect. Through his unwavering dedication, he raised two confident, successful daughters, one of whom became a global icon.

Though he remains a private man, his impact is undeniable. His name may not be in flashing lights, but to Cardi B, Hennessy Carolina, and those who know his story, Carlos Alman is a foundational figure whose values continue to inspire.