March 30

Ingvar Kamprad was born in 1926 in Sweden and founded IKEA at the age of 17. He pioneered the flat-pack furniture model, making stylish and functional designs accessible worldwide. Under his guidance, IKEA grew from a small mail-order company into a global retail powerhouse. Kamprad was known for his frugal lifestyle and emphasis on cost efficiency, personally involved in product selection and logistics. He championed environmental initiatives, integrating sustainable materials and renewable energy in store operations. He passed away in 2018, leaving a legacy as one of the most innovative and influential entrepreneurs of the 20th century.

Paul Crouch (1934-2013) was an American television broadcaster and media entrepreneur. In 1973, he co-founded the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) alongside his wife Jan Crouch. Under his leadership, TBN grew into one of the world's largest Christian broadcasting networks, reaching millions of viewers globally. Crouch was instrumental in pioneering religious programming on cable and satellite television. He advocated for faith-based content and expanded the network's reach with innovative fundraising and outreach strategies. Beyond broadcasting, he authored several books on Christian faith and ministry. His work left a lasting impact on religious media and modern televangelism.

Ian MacLaurin, Baron MacLaurin of Knebworth (born 1937) is a prominent English businessman and life peer. He served as Chief Executive and later Chairman of Tesco PLC, transforming the supermarket chain into one of the world's largest retailers. Under his leadership from 1985 to 1997, Tesco expanded its market share and introduced innovative customer loyalty programs. MacLaurin also held directorships and advisory positions at several major corporations, including Vodafone and GlaxoSmithKline. In recognition of his contributions to business and public service, he was appointed a life peer in the House of Lords in 1991. He has been active in various charitable and educational initiatives, emphasizing corporate responsibility. MacLaurin's strategic vision and leadership have left a lasting impact on global retail and business governance.

Klaus Schwab (born 1938) is a German engineer, economist, and academic who founded the World Economic Forum (WEF) in 1971. Under his leadership, the WEF's annual gathering in Davos has become a premier international forum for global leaders in business, politics, and society. Schwab's vision of stakeholder capitalism and public-private cooperation has influenced global economic and governance agendas. He has authored numerous books on economics, globalization, and technological change, including The Fourth Industrial Revolution. Schwab holds doctorates in engineering and economics from European universities and has served as a professor at several institutions. Recognized with multiple honors and awards, he advises governments and corporations on strategic policy. His work continues to shape conversations on sustainable development, digital transformation, and global cooperation.

Mark Wylea Erwin is an American businessman and diplomat who served as the U.S. Ambassador to Madagascar from 2002 to 2005. Prior to his diplomatic service, he held executive positions in the manufacturing industry and led international development projects. Erwin has been an advocate for environmental conservation and economic cooperation in East Africa. He played a key role in strengthening U.S.-Madagascar relations through trade and development initiatives. After his ambassadorship, he returned to the private sector and continued to advise on international business strategy. Erwin's career bridges both corporate leadership and public service.

Eddie Jordan is an Irish former racing driver who founded the Jordan Grand Prix Formula One team in 1991. He competed in Formula Three and Sports Car racing before moving into team ownership. Under his leadership, Jordan Grand Prix achieved multiple podium finishes and discovered talents like Michael Schumacher. After selling the team in 2005, he transitioned to broadcasting and became a popular F1 pundit for the BBC. Jordan's entrepreneurial spirit and colorful personality made him a beloved figure in motorsport. He continues to be involved in racing through advisory roles and mentoring young drivers.