April 11

Masaru Ibuka co-founded Tokyo Telecommunications Engineering Corporation in 1946, which later became Sony. Under his leadership, Sony introduced groundbreaking products like the TR-55 transistor radio and the iconic Walkman. Ibuka championed innovation, fostering a corporate culture that valued creativity and risk-taking. He also established Japan's first children's philosophy museum, promoting critical thinking from a young age. His contributions helped transform Sony into a global electronics powerhouse. Ibuka's legacy endures in the technology and entertainment industries worldwide. He passed away in 1997 but remains celebrated as a pioneer of consumer electronics.

John Levy began his career as a jazz double bassist, playing with legends such as Nat King Cole and Nancy Wilson. In 1960, he founded the John Levy Agency, becoming one of the first African American talent managers in the music industry. Under his management, artists like Ramsey Lewis and Betty Carter achieved international success. Levy advocated for fair contracts and professional representation for musicians, setting new industry standards. He served as president of the National Association of Talent Agents, influencing management practices. Levy's dual talents as a musician and entrepreneur reshaped the business side of jazz. He died in 2012, leaving a lasting legacy in both performance and artist management.

George J. Maloof Sr. was born in 1923 and developed his family's beverage distributorship into a diversified business empire. He expanded into hotels, casinos, and sports franchises, laying the foundation for the Maloof family's prominence in the entertainment industry. Under his leadership, the company acquired significant real estate and hospitality assets across the United States. He was known for his entrepreneurial vision and community involvement. His legacy continued through his children, who further grew the family's holdings. Maloof Sr. passed away in 1980, leaving behind a lasting business legacy.

Pierre Péladeau was born in 1925 in Montreal, Canada, and established Quebecor in 1965. Under his leadership, the company grew from a small printing business into a major media and telecommunications conglomerate. Péladeau expanded into newspapers, television, cable, and satellite services, shaping Quebec's media landscape. He was known for his bold investment strategies and commitment to Quebecois culture. His business acumen made him one of Canada's most influential entrepreneurs. Péladeau died in 1997, but his company continues to be a leading force in North American media.

Nicholas F. Brady (born 1930) is an American businessman and politician who led the U.S. Treasury Department from 1988 to 1993 under Presidents Reagan and Bush. Prior to his public service, he held executive positions in the private sector, including CEO of Dillon Read & Co. As Treasury Secretary, he introduced the 'Brady Plan' to restructure Latin American debt, aiding global financial stability. Brady has held board positions at major corporations and contributed to philanthropic endeavors. His career bridges the worlds of finance, policy, and economic diplomacy.

Reatha King (born 1938) is a chemist who held senior leadership positions at Dow Chemical and AlliedSignal, breaking barriers as one of the few African American women executives in the chemical industry. She earned a Ph.D. in chemistry before transitioning into management, where she directed research and development initiatives. King later served as president and CEO of the General Mills Foundation, championing educational programs and community development. She has been recognized for her contributions to science education, diversity, and corporate philanthropy. Her advocacy efforts have inspired countless women and minorities to pursue careers in STEM fields.

John Montagu is the 11th Earl of Sandwich, a British peer and businessman. He has managed family estates and business interests for decades. Montagu is involved in charitable activities and historic preservation. As a member of the House of Lords, he has participated in political debates. He represents a lineage dating back to the creation of the sandwich. Montagu continues to uphold his family's tradition in British society.