June 05

Born in 1879 in Hamburg, Robert Mayer moved to London and built a successful career in finance before dedicating himself to philanthropy. Passionate about music, he founded the Robert Mayer Concerts for Children, bringing live orchestral performances to young audiences across Britain. Over decades, his efforts nurtured appreciation for classical music among generations, leading to the establishment of the Robert Mayer Music Trust. Mayer’s lifelong commitment to arts education left a profound impact on cultural life in the UK. He continued his philanthropic work well into his later years, passing away in 1985 at the age of 106.

Born in 1894, Roy Thomson began his career with a single radio station in Canada. He expanded into newspapers, acquiring The Scotsman in Scotland and other publications. Over decades, he built the Thomson Corporation into one of the world's largest media companies. In 1964, he was ennobled as the 1st Baron Thomson of Fleet in the British peerage. His holdings spanned newspapers, broadcasting outlets, and publishing firms across Canada and the UK. Thomson's business acumen transformed the media landscape in North America and Europe. He remained active in his companies until his death in 1976, leaving a lasting media legacy.

Born in 1898 in Bonito, Italy, Ferragamo began crafting shoes as a teenager. He moved to the United States where he made custom footwear for Hollywood stars in the 1920s. In 1927, he returned to Italy and established his eponymous label in Florence. Ferragamo pioneered new methods such as the cage heel and wedge sole, blending artistry and comfort. His innovative approach set new standards in luxury footwear design. By his death in 1960, Salvatore Ferragamo S.p.A. had become a global fashion powerhouse. Today, his legacy lives on through the brand's continued influence in the industry.

Paul Soros (1926–2013) was a Hungarian-American engineer and businessman who transformed the field of marine cargo handling. After surviving World War II in Hungary, he emigrated to the United States and in 1954 founded Soros Associates, a firm specializing in the design of container cranes and port terminal systems. Under his leadership, the company introduced groundbreaking logistics solutions that revolutionized global shipping. Soros served as president of the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers and held multiple patents in marine engineering. A philanthropist at heart, he established the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans, supporting graduate students with immigrant backgrounds. His legacy endures in the ports that operate with his pioneering technologies.

Yves Blais (1931–1998) was a Canadian businessman turned politician active in Quebec's economic and political spheres. After founding a successful transportation firm, he entered public service and was elected to the National Assembly of Quebec in 1970 with the Union Nationale party, representing Rouyn-Noranda. During his tenure, Blais advocated for resource development and regional economic growth in northern Quebec. He left politics in 1976 and returned to the private sector, establishing a consultancy that advised on infrastructure and logistics projects. Blais remained engaged in community organizations and championed local business interests until his passing in 1998.

Born in 1932, Dave Gold launched the first 99 Cents Only Store in Los Angeles in 1982, revolutionizing the discount retail market. He pioneered a fixed-price model that offered quality goods at unbeatable prices. Under his leadership, the chain expanded rapidly to hundreds of locations across California and beyond. Gold’s hands-on approach to retail and keen understanding of consumer needs set new industry standards. He remained involved in operations and merchandising until his death in 2013. His innovative business model continues to influence modern discount store formats.

Patrick Head was born in Bristol in 1946 and co-founded Williams Grand Prix Engineering with Frank Williams in 1977. As Technical Director, he led the design of championship-winning Formula One cars, contributing to multiple Drivers' and Constructors' titles in the 1980s and 1990s. His innovations in aerodynamics, suspension, and chassis design set new standards in the sport. Under his leadership, Williams became one of the most successful independent teams in F1 history. Even after stepping down from daily operations, Head has remained an advisor and respected authority in motorsport engineering.

Born in 1951 in Chicago, Suze Orman began her career in financial services before founding the Suze Orman Financial Group. She hosted the CNBC series 'The Suze Orman Show' for over a decade, earning multiple Daytime Emmy nominations. Orman has written bestselling books such as 'The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous & Broke' and 'Women & Money', which have been translated into numerous languages. Her direct and accessible advice has made her a leading voice in personal finance. She continues to speak globally on topics of retirement planning, investing, and financial empowerment.

Born in 1953 in Berkeley, California, Kathleen Kennedy earned a degree from San Diego State University before working as a production assistant. She partnered with Steven Spielberg and Frank Marshall to form Amblin Entertainment in 1981, producing blockbusters such as 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial' and the 'Indiana Jones' series. Kennedy has been nominated for multiple Academy Awards, winning for 'Schindler's List'. In 2012, she became president of Lucasfilm, overseeing the revival of the 'Star Wars' saga. Her visionary leadership has shaped modern Hollywood storytelling.