December 02

Erima Harvey Northcroft served as an officer in the New Zealand Army during World War I before establishing a distinguished legal career. After the war, he studied law and became a respected barrister and later a judge of the Supreme Court of New Zealand. In 1946, Northcroft was appointed as New Zealand’s representative judge on the International Military Tribunal for the Far East in Tokyo, where he presided over the trial of Japanese war criminals. His judgments helped establish legal precedents in international law. Northcroft’s dual legacy as both a soldier and jurist underscores his contributions to military service and global justice. He passed away in 1953.

Born as the youngest son of Emperor Taishō, Prince Mikasa witnessed pivotal moments in modern Japanese history. He served in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II before pursuing academic studies, earning a doctorate in archaeology. An avid ornithologist, he published research on bird migration and conservation. Prince Mikasa dedicated himself to promoting reconciliation between Japan and its wartime neighbors through cultural exchanges. He remained active in public life for decades, earning respect for his intellectual curiosity and humanitarian efforts.

Nigel Calder (1931–2014) was an English science journalist, author and screenwriter. He worked for renowned publications including The Observer and New Scientist. Calder wrote influential popular science books such as The Restless Earth. He contributed scripts to the BBC Horizon series. His clear and engaging writing style made science accessible to general audiences. He remained active in science communication until his death in 2014. His legacy includes inspiring a generation of science writers and enthusiasts.

Born in 1939, Yael Dayan is the daughter of a prominent Israeli leader and grew up during the founding years of the state. She began her career as a journalist, reporting on social issues and writing for leading publications. In the late 1970s she entered local politics as deputy mayor of Tel Aviv before being elected to the Knesset, where she advocated for women’s rights and social justice. As an author she has published memoirs and novels exploring Israeli society. Her work has earned her recognition as a voice for reform and equality in Israel.

Born in 1944 in Istok, Ibrahim Rugova became an influential writer and professor before entering politics. He founded the Democratic League of Kosovo and championed a peaceful resistance against Serbian rule during the 1990s. After the Kosovo War, Rugova was elected as the territory’s first President and worked to secure international recognition and build democratic institutions. He received the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought in 1998. Known as the Gandhi of the Balkans, his leadership left a lasting impact on Kosovo’s path to statehood before his death in 2006.

Penelope Spheeris (born 1945) is an American film director, producer, and screenwriter. She is best known for her documentary series "The Decline of Western Civilization" (1981–1988), capturing the raw energy of the LA punk and metal scenes. She also directed the hit comedy feature "Wayne's World" (1992), which became a cultural phenomenon. Her work often explores subcultures, music movements, and outsider communities. Over her career, she has directed both independent films and mainstream studio projects, showcasing a diverse range of genres. Spheeris' commitment to giving voice to marginalized artists has made her a respected figure in independent cinema.

Born in Toronto, Paul Watson co-founded Greenpeace in 1971 before launching the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society in 1977. Under his leadership, Sea Shepherd vessels have undertaken high-profile campaigns against illegal whaling and fishing. Watson's direct-action tactics have drawn global attention to marine conservation and influenced policy discussions. He has written articles and spoken at international forums, advocating for the protection of ocean ecosystems. Watson's uncompromising style has inspired volunteers worldwide and sparked debate over environmental activism methods. He continues to lead Sea Shepherd missions, defending marine wildlife and raising awareness of ocean threats.

Philippe Etchebest is one of France's most celebrated chefs, holding multiple Michelin stars. He gained fame through his tough-love approach on the French version of Kitchen Nightmares, Cauchemar en cuisine. He has helmed renowned restaurants such as Le Quatrième Mur in Bordeaux. A graduate of the Institut Paul Bocuse, Etchebest has over 30 years of experience in haute cuisine. He has served as a judge on Top Chef France, influencing a new generation of chefs. His dynamic personality and dedication to French gastronomy have made him a household name in culinary circles.

Ulrika Bergquist has been a prominent figure at TV4 since the early 1990s, covering major national stories. She is best known for co-hosting Nyhetsmorgon, Sweden's leading morning news program. Bergquist has interviewed political leaders, cultural icons, and experts, earning a reputation for insightful reporting. Her career began in print journalism before transitioning to television, where her warm on-screen presence stood out. She has received accolades for her journalistic integrity and ability to relate complex issues to viewers. Bergquist continues to be a trusted voice in Swedish media, shaping public discourse.