March 05

Born in 1910 in Taiwan, Momofuku Ando moved to Japan and began a career in the food industry. In 1958, he invented instant ramen, revolutionizing fast food and convenience eating. He founded Nissin Foods, which introduced the first instant noodle product, 'Chikin Ramen'. Later, he launched Cup Noodles, creating a global phenomenon. Ando's innovations addressed food shortages and changed the way people eat worldwide. He held over 100 patents and established the Ando Foundation to support food research. He passed away in 2007, honored for his impact on food culture and technology.

Laurence Tisch (1923–2003) was a visionary entrepreneur who, alongside his brother, transformed the Loews Corporation from a small investment firm into a major conglomerate. Under his leadership, Loews expanded into insurance, energy, hospitality, and real estate, becoming a Fortune 500 company. Tisch was known for his strategic acquisitions and hands-on management style. He served on numerous corporate boards and was active in political and philanthropic circles. His philanthropic efforts supported education, healthcare, and the arts, reflecting his commitment to civic responsibility. Tisch’s business acumen left a lasting mark on American industry and philanthropy.

Robert Lindsay (1927–2023) was the 29th Earl of Crawford and Balcarres, a Scottish peer who balanced roles in both business and politics. Educated at Eton and Cambridge, he inherited his ancient title in 1975. Lindsay served on corporate boards across industries such as shipping, insurance, and finance, applying his leadership to modernize family holdings. As a member of the House of Lords, he contributed to debates on economic and cultural heritage matters until the 1999 reforms. A patron of arts and education, he supported Scottish museums and universities through philanthropy. Lindsay’s blend of traditional nobility and entrepreneurial spirit defined his long public life.

Bernard Arnault (born March 5, 1949) is a French billionaire entrepreneur and the chairman and CEO of LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton), the world's leading luxury goods conglomerate. Under his leadership, LVMH has expanded to include brands such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, Fendi, and Moët & Chandon, achieving record revenues and global influence. Arnault is an avid art collector and philanthropist, supporting major cultural institutions including the Louvre and Fondation Louis Vuitton. He has been recognized by multiple governments and institutions for his contributions to business and the arts. Consistently ranked among the wealthiest individuals globally, Arnault continues to shape the luxury industry and promote artistic endeavors worldwide.

Born in 1953, Sexwale was imprisoned on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela for his anti-apartheid activism. After his release, he emerged as a national leader, serving as Gauteng's inaugural Premier from 1994 to 1998, overseeing economic growth in South Africa's wealthiest province. He founded investment companies focusing on mining, real estate, and technology, becoming one of South Africa's leading black entrepreneurs. Sexwale has held various diplomatic posts, including ambassador to the United Kingdom, and has chaired several non-profit organizations promoting social development. His life story exemplifies resilience, leadership, and the power of business as a force for transformation.

Paul Drayson, Baron Drayson of Kenilworth, is a British businessman with a background in engineering and science. He founded several technology firms and has a passion for motorsport, establishing his own racing team. In 2008, he was appointed Minister for Defence Equipment, Support and Technology in the UK government. During his tenure, he advocated for investment in cutting-edge defense systems and research partnerships. A member of the House of Lords, he continues to support science education and sustainable innovation in industry.

Educated at the Central European University and Harvard, Gordon Bajnai built a successful career in finance before entering politics. Appointed Prime Minister during the global financial crisis, he implemented austerity measures and structural reforms to stabilize Hungary’s economy. After leaving office, Bajnai founded consultancy firms and promoted market-oriented policies through public speaking and writing. He remains active in civil society, advocating for transparency and good governance. His leadership during economic turmoil is widely studied.

Shay Carl Butler launched his YouTube career in 2008 with the family vlog channel Shaytards. He quickly grew a dedicated audience, pioneering daily vlogging and influencer marketing on the platform. In 2009, he co-founded Maker Studios, which became one of the world's largest YouTube networks before being acquired by Disney. Shay Carl has received numerous awards for digital content creation and has amassed millions of subscribers. He has published books, launched podcasts, and expanded his brand into lifestyle products and events. Through his authenticity and entrepreneurship, he has inspired a generation of online creators.

Sam Bankman-Fried is an American entrepreneur known for founding the cryptocurrency exchange FTX and the trading firm Alameda Research. A graduate of MIT with a physics degree, he quickly became a major figure in the crypto industry. Under his leadership, FTX grew into a multibillion-dollar platform before its 2022 collapse, which exposed alleged misappropriation of customer funds. Bankman-Fried was arrested and charged with fraud and conspiracy in one of the most high-profile cases in financial history. His rise and fall have sparked global debates on regulation, ethics, and the future of digital assets.