March 22

Born in 1793 in Nottingham, Courtauld moved to London and established a cotton printing business that grew into the multinational Courtaulds company. He pioneered the use of new dyes and printing techniques, transforming textile manufacturing. Under his leadership, the company expanded into rayon and artificial fibre production. Courtauld was also a patron of the arts and supported educational causes. He died in 1881, leaving a business empire that became a major force in the global textile industry.

Gil Puyat was born in 1907 in Manila and graduated with a degree in law from the University of Santo Tomas. He entered the business world before transitioning to politics and was first elected to the Philippine Senate in 1951. Puyat served as Senate President from 1967 to 1972, advocating for economic development, maritime expansion, and educational reforms. He played a key role in legislative modernization and sponsored laws that supported Filipino entrepreneurs. After martial law was declared in 1972, he retired from public office and focused on charitable and educational initiatives. His legacy endures with the major thoroughfare Gil Puyat Avenue named in his honor.

Robert Fletcher Shaw built a distinguished career bridging business, academia, and government in Canada. As an entrepreneur, he guided companies through periods of growth and innovation. In academia, he lectured and conducted research, influencing future leaders and scholars. As a civil servant, he helped shape public policy and drove initiatives for national development. His cross-sector expertise made him a respected figure in Canada's professional and civic communities.

Born in 1943 in Istanbul, he played for Galatasaray's basketball team in the 1960s. He later founded and led the Canaydın Group, a major construction and industry firm. Elected president of Galatasaray Sports Club from 2002 to 2008, he oversaw multiple championships in football and basketball. Canaydın championed modern management and infrastructure improvements for the club. His leadership left a lasting impact on Turkish sports until his death in 2010.