Richard
Branson

Sir Richard Branson, born on July 18, 1950, in Blackheath, London, is a quintessential example of entrepreneurial spirit and adventure. Branson, who struggled with dyslexia, dropped out of school at the age of 16 to start a magazine called "Student." His early venture into the magazine business laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey. In 1970, he founded Virgin as a mail-order record retailer, and by 1972, he had opened a chain of record stores, Virgin Records, later launching the iconic Virgin Records music label. His daring business ventures expanded into the aviation industry with Virgin Atlantic in 1984, amidst skepticism from industry onlookers, proving his critics wrong with the airline's success.

Beyond his knack for disrupting established industries, Branson is known for his adventurous spirit, undertaking various record-breaking attempts, from crossing oceans in hot air balloons to launching Virgin Galactic, with aspirations of space tourism. His Virgin Group now encompasses over 400 companies in various sectors, from travel to telecommunications, health, and space travel, underscoring his versatility and risk-taking appetite. Branson's approach to business, characterized by a focus on innovation, customer service, and employee satisfaction, has not only built a global empire but also made him a beloved figure. Despite his vast wealth and influence, Branson's down-to-earth persona and dedication to philanthropy, including initiatives on environmental sustainability and global peace, reflect a profound commitment to using his resources and influence for the greater good.