July 11

Wilfrid Israel (1899–1943) was a Jewish-German entrepreneur who led Berlin’s famous Wloete & Israel department store. With the rise of the Nazis, he used his considerable wealth, influence, and global connections to orchestrate rescue missions for persecuted Jews. Israel arranged Kindertransports, negotiated with governments, and worked with organizations like the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee. His efforts saved over 10,000 lives before he perished when his plane was downed over the Mediterranean in 1943. Remembered as a hero of the Holocaust, his legacy endures in the countless families he saved.

Gwendolyn Lizarraga (1901–1975) was a pioneering Belizean business leader who owned plantations and retail stores in the Stann Creek District. In 1954, she became the first woman elected to the British Honduras Legislative Council, where she fought for social services, education, and civil rights. Lizarraga co-founded the British Honduras Federation of Women, advocating for improved healthcare and schooling in rural areas. Her activism extended to labor rights and women’s empowerment, earning her national renown. She continued to serve her community until her passing in 1975, leaving a lasting impact on Belizean society.

Born on July 11, 1924 in Oklahoma, Oscar Wyatt served in World War II before entering the oil business. He founded Coastal Corporation in 1955, building it into a diversified energy company through bold acquisitions. Known for his adventurous trading strategies, Wyatt became a prominent figure in global oil markets. He faced legal controversies over Iran arms deals in the late 20th century but maintained his business influence. Well into his later years, Wyatt was celebrated for his entrepreneurial spirit and resilience in a volatile industry.

Trevor Storer was born in 1930 in Lancashire and took over his family's bakery business in 1963. Spotting a market gap, he launched Pukka Pies, specializing in hand-raised savory pies. His innovative approach to frozen food distribution helped the brand expand into pubs, shops, and stadiums nationwide. Storer's focus on quality ingredients and traditional recipes built a loyal customer base. Under his guidance, Pukka Pies became synonymous with British comfort food. He retired in later years but remained a respected figure in the industry until his death in 2013.

Born in 1934 in Piacenza, Giorgio Armani studied medicine before moving into fashion, joining the label Nino Cerruti in the 1960s. In 1975, he launched his own brand, pioneering unstructured jackets and relaxed tailoring that redefined modern menswear. His designs soon expanded into womenswear, accessories, and fragrances, establishing the Armani name as a symbol of understated luxury. Armani's influence grew through ventures like Emporio Armani and Armani Exchange, as well as high-profile sponsorships in sports and cinema. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovation, he remains one of the most celebrated designers in fashion history.

Robert Malval was born in 1943 in Haiti and built a career in the private sector before entering public service. In August 1993, President Jean-Bertrand Aristide appointed him Prime Minister in an effort to quell political unrest. During his tenure, Malval focused on economic stabilization and dialogue between rival factions. He resigned in December 1994 amid continued challenges and disagreements with the military authorities. After leaving office, he remained active in business and international diplomacy. Malval's brief premiership is remembered as a turbulent period in Haiti's modern political history.

Piyasvasti Amranand is a Thai businessman and politician. He served as Thailand’s Minister of Energy and played a key role in national energy policy. Amranand has held leadership positions in both the public and private sectors, including executive roles in major corporations. Under his guidance, initiatives were launched to modernize infrastructure and promote sustainable development. He remains an influential figure in Thailand’s business community and government advisory boards.

Born in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, Antony Jenkins studied at the University of Cambridge. He spent over 30 years at Barclays, holding roles in commercial banking and strategy. Jenkins became CEO in 2012, steering the bank through post-crisis reforms and regulatory challenges. He championed ethical banking practices and innovation during his tenure. After leaving Barclays in 2015, he founded 10X Future Technologies to transform financial services. Jenkins is a vocal advocate for fintech solutions that enhance inclusivity and efficiency in banking.