January 10

Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev was a self-made Azerbaijani oil magnate who amassed wealth during the Baku oil boom in the late 19th century. He invested his fortune in public infrastructure, funding schools, libraries, and cultural institutions, including the first secular school for girls in Azerbaijan. Taghiyev also supported social welfare projects for workers and contributed to the architectural transformation of Baku. His philanthropy extended to charitable endowments and healthcare initiatives. Through his vision and generosity, Taghiyev played a crucial role in modernizing his homeland and promoting education. He remains celebrated as a pioneer of industrial entrepreneurship and social reform in Azerbaijan.

Milton Parker was an American entrepreneur best known as co-founder of the Carnegie Deli on Manhattan's Upper East Side. Born in New York City, he partnered with Leo Steiner in 1976 to create a landmark delicatessen famous for its towering pastrami sandwiches. Under Parker's management, the Carnegie Deli became a cultural institution frequented by celebrities, politicians, and food lovers worldwide. He expanded the brand through catering, retail products, and a second location in Beverly Hills. Parker was known for his hands-on approach and distinctive dry humor, becoming a recognizable ambassador of the deli. After selling the business in the 2000s, he retired but remained a beloved figure in New York's culinary scene. He passed away in 2009, leaving behind a savory legacy in American food culture.

Billie Sol Estes was born in 1925 in Granbury, Texas, and built his wealth in the fertilizer and cotton industries. In the late 1950s, he became a controversial figure by exploiting federal loan programs and land deals. Estes used shrewd business tactics, including fraudulent phantom storage tanks, to secure government funds. In 1963, he was convicted of fraud and sentenced to prison, marking one of the decade’s biggest White House scandals. His case drew attention due to alleged ties with political figures and raised questions about corruption in Washington. After serving his sentence, Estes continued to cultivate his public persona through memoirs and interviews. He died in 2013, remembered as a symbol of 1960s corporate and political intrigue.

Roy Edward Disney, born in 1930, was the nephew of Walt Disney and a key figure in The Walt Disney Company. He began by producing corporate recruiting films and rose to serve on the company's board. In the early 2000s, he led the "Save Disney" campaign to restructure the company and revitalize its creative divisions. Disney was instrumental in the animation renaissance, overseeing classics like "The Little Mermaid". He championed high-quality storytelling and innovation throughout his tenure. Retiring in 2003, he remained a guiding influence until his death in 2009. His advocacy for creativity and family legacy left an enduring impact on entertainment.

George Foreman rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s as a powerful heavyweight boxer, winning the Olympic gold medal in 1968 and becoming the world heavyweight champion twice. He is known for his aggressive fighting style and memorable bouts, including his 1974 victory over Joe Frazier and his unexpected comeback in 1994 at age 45 to recapture the title from Michael Moorer. Beyond boxing, Foreman has succeeded as an actor, appearing in films and commercials, and as an entrepreneur, notably licensing the world-famous George Foreman Grill. He has authored books on fitness, faith, and personal development, and is celebrated for his philanthropic efforts in youth sports and education. Throughout his career, Foreman has remained a beloved public figure, admired for his resilience and business acumen. He passed away in 2025, leaving behind a lasting legacy in sports and popular culture.

Born in Düsseldorf into the Henkel family, Simone Bagel-Trah joined the family-owned Henkel company early in her career. She has served on Henkel's supervisory board since 2001 and became its chairwoman in 2009, overseeing global operations in adhesives, beauty care, and detergents. Under her leadership, Henkel has expanded its international footprint and pursued sustainability initiatives. Bagel-Trah is also involved in various non-profit and academic organizations, promoting innovation and corporate responsibility in Germany. Her strategic vision has maintained Henkel's position as a leader in the chemical and consumer goods industries.

Jared Corey Kushner is an American investor, real estate developer, and political advisor. Son of billionaire Charles Kushner, he led Kushner Companies in major acquisitions, including the New York Observer and prominent residential properties. After marrying Ivanka Trump, he became a senior advisor to President Donald Trump in 2017, overseeing initiatives on Middle East peace, criminal justice reform, and the administration’s COVID-19 response. His tenure featured landmark agreements such as the Abraham Accords and was marked by debates over his security clearance. A graduate of Harvard University and Harvard Law School, Kushner’s blend of business acumen and political influence continues to attract global attention.