July 20

Dobri Dobrev was a humble Bulgarian ascetic and philanthropist renowned for walking miles to hand-deliver donations to churches, monasteries, and orphanages. Born into poverty, he lost an arm in World War II but remained dedicated to serving others. For decades, he collected alms and distributed his entire pension to preserve historical monuments and support the needy. His selfless acts earned him widespread admiration, with many regarding him as a living saint in Bulgaria. Dobrev's life exemplified personal sacrifice and steadfast faith, inspiring countless people to embrace charity and compassion. Even after his death in 2018, his legacy continues through the institutions he supported.

Born Hazel Masterson in 1929, she trained as a social worker and studied piano before marrying future Prime Minister Bob Hawke. As Spouse of the Prime Minister from 1983 to 1991, she lent her voice to social causes and patronized cultural institutions. Hawke championed environmental conservation, mental health awareness, and community welfare initiatives. Her public role balanced ceremonial duties with genuine activism, bringing attention to grassroots organizations across Australia. After leaving the official residence, she continued her philanthropic work and was celebrated for her warmth and dedication until her passing in 2013.

Randal Kleiser is an American film and television director and producer. He gained fame directing the blockbuster musical 'Grease' in 1978. Kleiser also directed films such as 'The Blue Lagoon' (1980) and 'Flight of the Navigator' (1986). He began his career at the University of Southern California’s film school, making award-winning student films. Beyond feature films, he has worked in music videos, commercials, and theater productions. Kleiser continues to influence popular culture with his innovative storytelling and production techniques.

Thomas L. Friedman (born July 20, 1953) is an American journalist and author. He has been a foreign affairs columnist for The New York Times since 1995 and has won the Pulitzer Prize three times. Friedman's bestselling books include The Lexus and the Olive Tree (1999) and The World Is Flat (2005). His writing explores the impacts of globalization, technology, and environmental issues on world politics and economics. He previously worked as a reporter for the Minneapolis Star Tribune and the Washington Post. Friedman is known for his engaging analysis and accessible explanations of complex global trends. He continues to influence public discourse on international affairs through his columns and lectures.

Born in 1958 in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, Billy Mays became one of the most recognizable figures in direct-response television. He promoted household products like OxiClean, Kaboom, and Orange Glo with his booming voice and enthusiastic delivery. Mays’s high-energy commercials helped drive massive sales and turned him into a pop culture icon. He expanded his presence through appearances on reality TV and talk shows, showcasing his charismatic persona. Mays’s career was cut short by his untimely death in 2009, but his influence on marketing and advertising endures.

Born in 1961 in Havana, Óscar Elías Biscet trained as a medical doctor before dedicating himself to human rights advocacy. In 1997, he established the Lawton Foundation to defend political prisoners and advocate for freedom of speech under Cuba's one-party regime. Biscet's activism led to multiple imprisonments, drawing international attention to Cuba’s human rights record. In 2002, he was awarded the European Parliament's Sakharov Prize for his peaceful struggle against oppression. Biscet continues to campaign globally for nonviolent democratic reforms and the rule of law in his homeland.

Erica Hill was born in 1976 in Westchester County, New York, and graduated from Syracuse University's S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. She began her career as a producer and reporter for WDTN-TV before joining CNN in 2002 as a correspondent. Hill moved to NBC News in 2008, co-anchoring Weekend Today and reporting on stories such as Hurricane Sandy and the 2012 London Olympics. In 2010, she joined CBS News as co-anchor of The Early Show and later hosted CBS This Morning Saturday. She returned to CNN in 2021 to anchor newscasts and host special reports. Hill has conducted high-profile interviews and is known for her insightful political analysis.

Born July 20, 1991, in San Francisco, California, USA. Won the Miss New York title in 2014 before being crowned Miss America in September 2014. Advocated passionately for mental health awareness and arts education during her tenure. Traveled across the United States, delivering speeches and workshops on healthy living. Graduated from Hofstra University with a degree in political science and government. Pursued a career in media and public speaking while continuing philanthropic efforts.