You need to think it through. Imagine the worst case scenario, that you do all the hard work, and then someone really does come along and gain all the benefits.

You need to think it through. Imagine the worst case scenario, that you do all the hard work, and then someone really does come along and gain all the benefits. Then what happens? You will still get the experience from doing the hard work, if not the money or recognition. The only thing that matters when it comes to getting things done is experience. Fame and fortune come later, if at all. Eventually, with enough experience, you will be so good that it will be impossible for anyone else to take credit for your work, even if that isn't true now. Have faith in yourself and your future.