Miami Living Top 20 Power List: A List of the Most Powerful People in Miami

Test your knowledge and find out how much you know about Miami's distinguished group of individuals who wield significant influence and power in Miami and beyond.

Alex Rodriguez

Craig Robins

Craig Robins

Craig Robins, born into a Jewish family in Miami Beach, FL, was greatly influenced by his father, Gerald Robins, a successful real estate developer. Growing up on Star Island, Robins witnessed firsthand the transformative power of real estate development. After attending the University of Barcelona and earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan, Robins graduated from the University of Miami School of Law in 1987. His education abroad in Barcelona ignited his passion for art, design, and architecture, laying the foundation for his future endeavors.

In 1987, Robins founded Dacra Development, Inc., branching out on his own to purchase and develop South Beach real estate. He brokered a compromise between developers and preservationists, establishing himself as a preservationist and visionary developer. Mentored by real estate developers Tony Goldman and Chris Blackwell, Robins revitalized South Beach properties, igniting a renaissance in the area. His commitment to preserving Miami's cultural heritage led to the expansion of the Art Deco Historic District.

In addition to these achievements, Robins' philanthropic endeavors, including his involvement with organizations like the Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA), further demonstrate his dedication to supporting and enriching Miami's cultural landscape.

He serves on the board of governors for the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami and the advisory board of the University of Miami School of Architecture Master in Real Estate Development and Urbanism.

Craig Robins is married to Jackie Soffer, co-owner of Turnberry Associates, a prominent figure in the real estate industry overseeing Aventura Mall. Jackie is the daughter of esteemed real estate developer Donald Soffer.

Notable Achievements:

- Design Patron Award (2006): Presented by the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, this prestigious award recognized Robins for his patronage of design within the business and civic sectors, highlighting his instrumental role in shaping Miami's architectural and cultural scene.

- Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award (2011): Robins was selected by an international jury for this esteemed award, which honors exemplary patrons of art, architecture, design, and culture. His contributions to Miami's cultural resurgence over more than 25 years were acknowledged, further solidifying his impact on the city's arts and architecture.

- Creative Times Annual Gala Honoree (2016): Robins was honored at the Creative Times Annual Gala for his role in bridging the division between public and private through his patronage of the arts and leadership in developing the Miami Design District and Design Miami. This recognition underscored his commitment to fostering creativity and innovation within the community.

Personal Life and Habits:

Below is a look at Robins' personal likes.

- Passion for Art and Design: Robins emphasizes the powerful interaction between art and design, ensuring that his surroundings reflect both aesthetics. He curates his office space with iconic pieces by renowned designers such as Prouvé, complemented by artworks from artists like Marlene Dumas and Barkley L. Hendricks. At home, Robins blends historical designers like Gio Ponti and Maria Pergay with contemporary creations, such as the Aqua table designed by Zaha Hadid.

- Art Collecting: Robins is an avid collector of young artists, constantly seeking emerging talents and observing their evolution. He expresses particular enthusiasm for artists like Jana Euler, Sasha Gordon, Chase Hall, and Lauren Halsey, whose works contribute to the current artistic dialogue.

- Travel and Leisure: Robins frequently travels to cities like Paris, Milan, London, and Basel for work, where he appreciates exceptional hospitality experiences offered by luxury hotels. However, for personal leisure, he prefers camping in the wilderness, particularly enjoying kayaking trips that offer a sense of adventure and discovery.

- Reading Habits: Robins maintains a voracious appetite for knowledge, regularly immersing himself in nonfiction literature spanning various disciplines, including history, physics, biology, economics, and sociology. He is currently revisiting "Wanting" by Luke Burgis and exploring "Incognito" by David Eagleman, delving into topics related to human desires and neuroscience.

- Fashion and Style: Describing himself as a casual dresser, Robins gravitates towards comfortable attire, often sporting T-shirts from collaborations with artists like Urs Fischer and Josué Thomas. He values personalized touches, such as custom-fitted glasses from Maison Bonnet in Paris, recommended by renowned designer Christian Louboutin.

- Culinary Preferences: In Miami, Robins enjoys diverse culinary experiences, favoring spots like the Korean barbecue restaurant Cote for steak and Le Jardinier for healthier options. He also frequents Mia Market in the Design District for Japanese cuisine at Sushi Yasu Tanaka and recommends Mandolin Aegean Bistro for its casual and vibrant atmosphere.

• Founded Dacra in 1987.

• Spearheaded the transformation of neglected industrial areas into cultural districts.

• Net worth estimated at $1 billion.

Jennifer Lopez

Born in New York City, Jennifer Lopez is a multifaceted entertainer and entrepreneur. From her humble beginnings in the Bronx, she rose to global stardom as a singer, dancer, and actress. Lopez attended Baruch College for a short period before pursuing her entertainment career full-time. With numerous chart-topping hits and successful films under her belt, she has become one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry. Jennifer Lopez's homes are located in Miami but also in Bel Air (California), New York City, the Hamptons.

• Sold over 70 million records worldwide.

• Starred in successful films such as "Selena" and "Hustlers."

• Estimated net worth of $400 million.
  

Mera and Don Rubell

Miami natives Mera and Don Rubell are influential art collectors and philanthropists known for their passion for contemporary art. Born and raised in the city, they began collecting art in the 1960s and have since amassed one of the world's most extensive collections. The couple's dedication to supporting emerging artists led them to establish the Rubell Museum, providing a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange.

• Own one of the world's most extensive contemporary art collections.

• Rubell Museum features works by Keith Haring, Jeff Koons, etc.

• Estimated combined net worth of $500 million.

1. Jessica Goldman Srebnick

• Jessica Goldman Srebnick, a Miami native, is a creative visionary known for her contributions to the city's arts and culture scene. Raised in a family deeply involved in real estate, she developed a passion for urban development and creative placemaking. After graduating from the University of Michigan with a degree in Urban Planning, Srebnick joined Goldman Properties, where she played a pivotal role in transforming Wynwood into a thriving arts district.

• Oversees Goldman Properties' portfolio, including Wynwood Walls.

• Contributed to Wynwood's evolution into an arts district.

• Estimated net worth of $200 million.