October 23

John Boyd Dunlop was born in 1840 in Scotland and initially trained as a veterinary surgeon. In 1887, he reinvented the pneumatic tyre to enhance comfort and performance for cyclists, securing a pivotal patent. He founded the Dunlop Pneumatic Tyre Company, which quickly expanded into a leading international firm. Under his guidance, Dunlop Rubber grew into a major manufacturer of tyres and related rubber products. His innovation revolutionized personal and commercial transportation, leaving a lasting impact on mobility.

Tibor Rosenbaum (1923–1980) was a Hungarian-born Swiss rabbi and businessman known for his dual commitment to faith and commerce. After emigrating to Switzerland, he served as a spiritual leader for Jewish communities while also engaging in various business endeavors. Rosenbaum sought to support post-war Jewish life through both religious outreach and financial initiatives. His philanthropic efforts helped fund educational programs and community projects across Europe. By bridging the worlds of religion and entrepreneurship, he left a unique legacy that reflected his vision of faith-driven enterprise.

Born Mustafa İlhan on January 23, 1965, in Diyarbakır, Turkey. Emigrated to Australia with his family as a child and adopted the name John Ilhan. Founded Crazy John's in 1991, revolutionizing the mobile phone retail market. Grew the business into Australia’s largest independent mobile retailer by 2007. Known for aggressive pricing, innovative marketing, and customer-focused service. Invested in philanthropic endeavors, including healthcare and children’s charities. Died suddenly of a heart attack on October 23, 2007, at the age of 42.

Born in 1918 in Fujian, China, Lim Goh Tong migrated to Malaya at a young age. Started as a road fettler and later founded Genting Highlands Resort in 1965. Overcame engineering and financial challenges to create Malaysia’s first hill resort. Built Resorts World Genting into an integrated destination with casinos, hotels, and theme parks. His visionary leadership transformed Genting Group into a global leisure and hospitality company. Recognized for philanthropic contributions to education and community development. Passed away on October 23, 2007, leaving a legacy of innovation in Malaysian industry.

Born in Glastonbury, Connecticut in 1923, Stanley K. Tanger founded Tanger Factory Outlet Centers in 1981. He pioneered the concept of outlet malls, creating shopping destinations that attracted millions of bargain hunters. Under his leadership, Tanger Centers expanded across the United States and internationally. Tanger was also a committed philanthropist, supporting education, healthcare, and the arts through generous donations. He served on the boards of several nonprofit organizations and received numerous civic honors. Tanger passed away in 2010, leaving a lasting impact on retail and community development.

Roger De Clerck was a Belgian industrialist who founded the Beaulieu International Group in the 1950s. Under his leadership, the company became a global leader in textile and floor covering production. He pioneered innovations in synthetic fibers and automated manufacturing processes. De Clerck expanded his business across Europe and North America, employing thousands worldwide. He was also known for his philanthropic efforts in his hometown of Zulte, supporting local culture and sports. His vision and entrepreneurial spirit shaped the modern carpet industry until his death in 2015.

Fred Sands co-founded Coldwell Banker Commercial in the 1960s and built it into a leading real estate firm. In 1979, he played a key role in establishing the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles. A passionate art collector, Sands donated significant works and supported museum expansions. He was also involved in various philanthropic initiatives, including healthcare and education. His business acumen and generosity helped shape Los Angeles’s cultural landscape. Sands remained active in real estate and philanthropy until his death in 2015.

Born in 1927 in Viipuri (now Vyborg), Samulin survived evacuation during the Winter War and discovered a love for dance.\nAfter studying modern dance abroad, she returned to Helsinki and opened her own dance academy in 1960.\nHer innovative programs combined ballet, jazz, and fitness exercises, drawing celebrities and everyday Finns alike.\nShe hosted television shows on dance and movement, inspiring a national trend in dance-based wellness.\nLater in life, Samulin launched a fashion line and engaged in charitable work supporting music and youth programs.\nHer vibrant personality and entrepreneurial spirit left a lasting legacy in Finland’s cultural history.