American businessman
American businessman
American entrepreneur who pioneered advancements in the early petroleum equipment industry.
Walter Benona Sharp (1870–1912) was a pioneering American businessman whose innovations in oilfield equipment helped transform the petroleum industry. He founded and led companies that developed advanced drilling tools, improving efficiency and safety for oil explorers. Sharp's leadership attracted significant investment and expanded operations across major oil-producing regions. His entrepreneurial spirit and engineering interests bridged the gap between business and technology during a time of rapid industrial growth. Sharp's influence persisted beyond his death, as his ventures laid groundwork for future energy endeavors.
1912
Walter Benona Sharp
Argentinian businessman
Argentinian businessman
Argentine sports executive and businessman best known for multiple terms as president of the River Plate football club.
Born in 1902, Antonio Vespucio Liberti rose through Argentina’s business and sports circles to become president of Club Atlético River Plate in 1933. He spearheaded the construction of the iconic Estadio Monumental, which became River Plate’s historic home ground. Under his leadership, the club won several national championships and enhanced its international reputation. Liberti implemented modern management practices and strengthened fan engagement, setting new standards in sports administration. He served three nonconsecutive terms as president, leaving a lasting influence on Argentine football. Liberti passed away in 1978, with his visionary contributions still celebrated by River Plate supporters.
1978
Antonio Vespucio Liberti
American fashion designer and entrepreneur
American fashion designer and entrepreneur
American fashion designer and entrepreneur, founder of Off-White and artistic director of Louis Vuitton menswear.
Virgil Abloh (1980–2021) was an American fashion designer, entrepreneur, and DJ. He founded the Milan-based label Off-White in 2012 and gained acclaim for blending streetwear with high fashion. In 2018, he became the first African-American artistic director of Louis Vuitton's menswear collection. Abloh collaborated with global brands such as Nike, IKEA, and Evian, expanding his influence beyond clothing. With a background in civil engineering and architecture, he applied his design thinking across art, music, and product design. His untimely death from cardiac angiosarcoma marked the end of a transformative era in contemporary fashion.
2021
Virgil Abloh
British founder of Williams Grand Prix Engineering
British founder of Williams Grand Prix Engineering
British motorsport entrepreneur and founder of the Williams Formula One team.
Sir Frank Williams (1942–2021) was a British motorsport entrepreneur and team owner. He founded Williams Grand Prix Engineering in 1977 and led the team to nine Formula One Constructors' Championships. Under his leadership, Williams drivers won seven Drivers' Championships, cementing the team's legacy in F1 history. Despite a car accident in 1986 that left him tetraplegic, he continued to manage the team with determination. Knighted in 1999 for his services to motorsport, Williams remained a respected figure until his death. His passion and resilience inspired generations of racing enthusiasts worldwide.
Frank Williams
Williams Grand Prix Engineering
American businessman and vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway
American businessman and vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway
American investor and longtime vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway.
Charles T. Munger (1924–2023) was an American investor, philanthropist, and vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. He partnered with Warren Buffett to build a globally respected conglomerate known for its disciplined approach to value investing. Munger was celebrated for his multidisciplinary thinking, employing mental models from psychology, economics, and history. He emphasized long-term, ethical business practices and clear decision-making. A devoted philanthropist, he donated extensively to educational and medical institutions. His wisdom and wit left a lasting legacy in finance and beyond.
2023
Charlie Munger
Berkshire Hathaway
Malaysian businessman
Malaysian businessman
Malaysian tycoon and billionaire media magnate.
Tan Sri Ananda Krishnan (1938–2024) was a Malaysian entrepreneur and one of the country's wealthiest individuals. He founded the Maxis communications group and expanded into media, oil, and property development. Krishnan's investments spanned the Asia Pacific region, including cable TV, satellite networks, and energy exploration. Known for his low-profile management style, he preferred strategic partnerships and long-term growth. Through his philanthropic efforts, he supported education and healthcare initiatives across Malaysia. His visionary investments shaped the nation's modern infrastructure and business landscape.
Ananda Krishnan