Ohad "Ady" Barkan was an American lawyer and liberal activist best known for fighting for access to
universal health care, improved home health support and other reforms to America’s health-care
system. He was also a co-founder of the Be a Hero PAC and was an organizer for the Center for Popular
Democracy, where he led the Fed Up campaign. Barkan studied political science at Columbia University,
where he became increasingly involved in student activism. After graduating from college, Barkan
... moreOhad "Ady" Barkan was an American lawyer and liberal activist best known for fighting for access to
universal health care, improved home health support and other reforms to America’s health-care
system. He was also a co-founder of the Be a Hero PAC and was an organizer for the Center for Popular
Democracy, where he led the Fed Up campaign. Barkan studied political science at Columbia University,
where he became increasingly involved in student activism. After graduating from college, Barkan
worked as a community organizer for several years before attending law school at Yale University. As a
lawyer, Barkan focused on civil rights litigation and advocacy. At 32 he was diagnosed with a
neurodegenerative disease ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig's disease) which inspired him to advocate for
healthcare reforms. In 2017, Barkan confronted Senator Jeff Flake on a plane in 2017, asking him to "be
a hero" and vote no on a tax bill that threatened cuts to Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security. Barkan
was also an influential voice in progressive circles. He wrote frequently for publications such as The New
York Times, The Nation, and The Huffington Post, and he appeared on television news programs to
discuss current events and legal issues.
Lebohang Mpayana was a talented South African actress who gained recognition for her role in the
popular television series DiepCity. Her career in the entertainment industry was marked by her
exceptional talent and dedication to her craft. Mpayana's journey in the acting world began at a young
age when she discovered her passion for performing arts. She honed her skills through various theater
productions and local television appearances before landing her breakthrough role in DiepCity. The
... moreLebohang Mpayana was a talented South African actress who gained recognition for her role in the
popular television series DiepCity. Her career in the entertainment industry was marked by her
exceptional talent and dedication to her craft. Mpayana's journey in the acting world began at a young
age when she discovered her passion for performing arts. She honed her skills through various theater
productions and local television appearances before landing her breakthrough role in DiepCity. The
show, showcased Mpayana's versatility as an actress and allowed her to captivate audiences with her
compelling performances. Throughout her career, Mpayana became known for her ability to portray
complex characters with depth and authenticity. Her dedication to her craft was evident in every role
she took on, as she immersed herself fully into each character's emotions and motivations. Her talent
resonated with viewers, earning her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim within the industry.
Mpayana's impact extended beyond the screen. She used her platform to advocate for social issues
close to her heart, including gender equality and representation in the entertainment industry. Her
activism inspired many, and she became a role model for aspiring actors and actresses who looked up to
her as a beacon of hope and empowerment.
Nompulo Dlamini was a South African influential figure in raising awareness about cystic fibrosis (CF), a
genetic disorder affecting the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. She dedicated her life to
advocating for those affected by this genetic disorder and educating the public about its impact. She was
diagnosed with CF at just three years old, which came with numerous challenges, including frequent
hospitalizations, medication regimens, and the constant fear of infection. At ... moreNompulo Dlamini was a South African influential figure in raising awareness about cystic fibrosis (CF), a
genetic disorder affecting the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. She dedicated her life to
advocating for those affected by this genetic disorder and educating the public about its impact. She was
diagnosed with CF at just three years old, which came with numerous challenges, including frequent
hospitalizations, medication regimens, and the constant fear of infection. At the age of 15, Nompulo
became an advocate for CF awareness, speaking at local events and sharing her story with others. She
co-founded the non-profit organization "Breathe for Life" which aimed to improve the quality of life for
people with CF in South Africa and also used social media to reach a wider audience. Through her
advocacy, she raised awareness about the need for better healthcare services, increased funding for
research, and improved access to treatment for those affected by CF. In 2017, Nompulo was recognized
as one of the "Top 20 Young People Making a Difference in the World" by the International Association
of Youth Organizations. Her life's work and legacy continue to inspire hope and resilience in the CF
community and beyond.
Kevin Price Phillips was a prominent American writer and commentator best known for his insightful
analysis of politics, economics, and history. Phillips gained national recognition with the publication of
his groundbreaking book, "The Emerging Republican Majority" (1969), which predicted the electoral realignment that would lead to Republican dominance in American politics for the next several decades. This work established him as a leading political analyst and earned him a reputation for hi... moreKevin Price Phillips was a prominent American writer and commentator best known for his insightful
analysis of politics, economics, and history. Phillips gained national recognition with the publication of
his groundbreaking book, "The Emerging Republican Majority" (1969), which predicted the electoral realignment that would lead to Republican dominance in American politics for the next several decades. This work established him as a leading political analyst and earned him a reputation for his astute understanding of electoral trends and the shifting dynamics of American parties. Throughout his career, Phillips authored numerous books that tackled a wide range of topics, including the role of religion in politics, the influence of finance on American society, and the impact of globalization on the middle
class. His writings often challenged conventional wisdom and provided fresh perspectives on complex
issues. Notable works include "American Theocracy: The Peril and Politics of Radical Religion, Oil, and
Borrowed Money in the 21st Century" (2006) and "Bad Money: Reckless Finance, Failed Politics, and the Global Crisis of American Capitalism" (2008). In addition to his books, Phillips was a regular
commentator and contributor to various media outlets, including The New York Times, The Wall Street
Journal, and National Public Radio. His insightful analysis and thought-provoking commentary made him
a respected voice in political and economic discourse. He received numerous accolades for his work,
including the Arthur Ross Book Award from the Council on Foreign Relations.
Michael Chiarello was a renowned American celebrity chef best known for his Italian-influenced California cuisine and for hosting the cooking show Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello on Food Network, and NapaStyle on Fine Living Network. Chiarello's passion for cooking began at a young age, inspired by the culinary traditions of his Italian family. He honed his skills in renowned restaurants such as The Restaurant at Domaine Chandon and Tra Vigne before he opened his own restaurant, Tra Vig... moreMichael Chiarello was a renowned American celebrity chef best known for his Italian-influenced California cuisine and for hosting the cooking show Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello on Food Network, and NapaStyle on Fine Living Network. Chiarello's passion for cooking began at a young age, inspired by the culinary traditions of his Italian family. He honed his skills in renowned restaurants such as The Restaurant at Domaine Chandon and Tra Vigne before he opened his own restaurant, Tra Vigne, in the heart of Napa Valley, California in 1995. The restaurant quickly became a destination for food enthusiasts seeking his unique culinary creations. Beyond his restaurant ventures, Chiarello became a familiar face on television. He hosted several cooking shows, including "Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello" and "NapaStyle," where he shared his passion for food and cooking with a wide audience. His warm and engaging personality, combined with his culinary expertise, made him a beloved figure in the culinary television landscape. Chiarello was also an accomplished author, having written multiple cookbooks that reflected his culinary philosophy and provided readers with recipes and tips for recreating his signature dishes at home. His books, including "Flavored Oils: 50 Recipes for Cooking with Infused Oils" and "Michael Chiarello's Casual Cooking," became popular resources for aspiring home cooks.
Beverly Willis was a highly influential American architect best known for playing a major role in the development of many architectural concepts and practices that influenced the design of American cities and architecture. One of Willis's notable achievements was her work as the founding director of the San Francisco-based Women's Environmental Art Movement (WEAM) in the 1970s. WEAM aimed to raise awareness about the underrepresentation of women in the architectural and design fields. Under Will... moreBeverly Willis was a highly influential American architect best known for playing a major role in the development of many architectural concepts and practices that influenced the design of American cities and architecture. One of Willis's notable achievements was her work as the founding director of the San Francisco-based Women's Environmental Art Movement (WEAM) in the 1970s. WEAM aimed to raise awareness about the underrepresentation of women in the architectural and design fields. Under Willis's leadership, WEAM organized exhibitions, meetings, and publications that shed light on the contributions of women in these disciplines. Additionally, Willis was a firm advocate for the inclusion of women in architectural history. In 2002, she established the Beverly Willis Architecture Foundation (BWAF), which focused on documenting and preserving the history of women in architecture. Through the foundation, she spearheaded the creation of the "Pioneering Women of American Architecture" exhibition, which showcased the works of pioneering female architects and their impact on the built environment. Willis also championed and embraced computer-aided design (CAD) and was one of the early architects to explore its potential applications in the industry. In recognition of her significant contributions to the field, Willis was elected as a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (FAIA) in 2017. This prestigious honor exemplified her dedication and impact as an architect.
Zoleka Mandela, was a prominent South African writer and activist best known for being the
granddaughter of Nelson Mandela, the iconic anti-apartheid revolutionary and former President of
South Africa. She wrote about her addictions, her daughter's death, and her own battles with breast
cancer. She was also chosen as one of the BBC's "100 Women&" in 2016. Mandela used her voice to shed light on important social issues and advocate for change. She authored several books that tackled topics
su... moreZoleka Mandela, was a prominent South African writer and activist best known for being the
granddaughter of Nelson Mandela, the iconic anti-apartheid revolutionary and former President of
South Africa. She wrote about her addictions, her daughter's death, and her own battles with breast
cancer. She was also chosen as one of the BBC's "100 Women&" in 2016. Mandela used her voice to shed light on important social issues and advocate for change. She authored several books that tackled topics
such as mental health, addiction, domestic violence, cancer and HIV/AIDS. Her writings were deeply
personal and often drawn from her own experiences, allowing readers to connect with her on a
profound level. Through her words, she aimed to raise awareness, challenge societal norms, and inspire
others to take action. In addition to her literary endeavors, Mandela was a passionate activist. She
dedicated herself to fighting for social justice and equality in South Africa and beyond. She actively
campaigned against gender-based violence and worked tirelessly to empower women and girls.
Mandela believed in the power of education as a tool for change and advocated for improved access to
quality education for all. Furthermore, Mandela was an advocate for road safety. Having lost her own 13
year old daughter to a traffic accident, she became a vocal proponent for stricter road regulations and
increased awareness about the importance of safe driving practices.
Matteo Messina Denaro, also known as "Diabolik," was a prominent Sicilian Mafia boss from Castelvetrano, Sicily best known as one of the most elusive and feared criminals in Italy, operating as the head of the Cosa Nostra in the Trapani province. Denaro was the son of a mafia boss, his criminal career began in the 1980s when he became associated with the Mafia. He quickly gained a reputation for his ruthlessness and cunning tactics, earning him the nickname "Diabolik" due to his ability to evade... moreMatteo Messina Denaro, also known as "Diabolik," was a prominent Sicilian Mafia boss from Castelvetrano, Sicily best known as one of the most elusive and feared criminals in Italy, operating as the head of the Cosa Nostra in the Trapani province. Denaro was the son of a mafia boss, his criminal career began in the 1980s when he became associated with the Mafia. He quickly gained a reputation for his ruthlessness and cunning tactics, earning him the nickname "Diabolik" due to his ability to evade capture and his sinister nature. He was known for his involvement in various criminal activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, money laundering, and murder. Throughout his life, Denaro managed to avoid capture and remained one of Italy's most wanted fugitives for over two decades. Denaro's criminal empire extended beyond Italy's borders, with connections to international criminal organizations. His alleged involvement in international drug trafficking networks solidified his position as one of the most powerful and influential figures in organized crime. He became one of the ten most wanted and powerful criminals in the world. Denaro was arrested in Sicily by Italian police, on 16 January 2023 after being a fugitive since 1993. He died in hospital where he was receiving treatment for colon cancer after falling into an irreversible coma putting an end to his reign of terror that lasted for several decades.
Éva Pusztai-Fahidi was a Hungarian author and Holocaust survivor best known for her powerful memoirs and contributions to Holocaust education. Her life was marked by the horrors of World War II and the Holocaust, which had a profound impact on her personal and professional journey. Pusztai-Fahidi grew up in a middle-class Jewish family and enjoyed a relatively comfortable childhood. However, her life took a drastic turn with the rise of anti-Semitism and the occupation of Hungary by Nazi German... moreÉva Pusztai-Fahidi was a Hungarian author and Holocaust survivor best known for her powerful memoirs and contributions to Holocaust education. Her life was marked by the horrors of World War II and the Holocaust, which had a profound impact on her personal and professional journey. Pusztai-Fahidi grew up in a middle-class Jewish family and enjoyed a relatively comfortable childhood. However, her life took a drastic turn with the rise of anti-Semitism and the occupation of Hungary by Nazi Germany in 1944. At the age of 18, she and her family were forced into the Budapest Ghetto, where they endured extreme deprivation and witnessed the atrocities committed against their fellow Jews. After the war in 1945, Pusztai-Fahidi dedicated herself to rebuilding her life and seeking justice for the victims of the Holocaust. However it wasn't until later in life that she found the courage to share her own experiences of the war. Pusztai-Fahidi became an active participant in Holocaust education programs, sharing her story with students and speaking at various events. She spoke out and warned people of the re-emergence of far-right populism and discrimination against minorities across Europe. She believed in the importance of remembering and learning from the past to prevent similar atrocities from happening again.
Peter Charles Newman born Peta Karel Neumann was an award winning Canadian journalist, editor, and author best known for interviewing and writing about every Canadian prime minister from Louis St. Laurent (1948–1957) to Paul Martin (2003–2006). Newman began his career in journalism in the early 1950s. He quickly established himself as a talented writer and reporter, covering a wide range of topics including politics, business, and Canadian history. Newman's most notable work is his critically a... morePeter Charles Newman born Peta Karel Neumann was an award winning Canadian journalist, editor, and author best known for interviewing and writing about every Canadian prime minister from Louis St. Laurent (1948–1957) to Paul Martin (2003–2006). Newman began his career in journalism in the early 1950s. He quickly established himself as a talented writer and reporter, covering a wide range of topics including politics, business, and Canadian history. Newman's most notable work is his critically acclaimed series of books titled "The Canadian Establishment." In this groundbreaking series, he delved into the power structures and influential figures that shaped Canada's political and economic landscape. Through in-depth interviews and extensive research, Newman provided valuable insights into the country's history, exploring topics such as business dynasties, political leaders, and the complexities of Canadian identity. Throughout his career, Newman held prominent positions in the media industry. He served as the editor of the Toronto Star, one of Canada's largest newspapers, and was the founding editor of the influential magazine Maclean's. His editorial leadership played a vital role in shaping public discourse in Canada and establishing a high standard of journalism. Newman was an author. He wrote numerous books including biographies, political analyses, and explorations of Canadian culture and society. He was appointed to the Order of Canada, and received the Governor General's Award for Non-Fiction.
Fernando Botero Angulo was a renowned Colombian figurative artist and sculptor best known for his signature style, also known as "Boterismo", which depicts people and figures in large, exaggerated volume. He was considered the most recognized and quoted artist from Latin America in his lifetime. Botero studied at the local fine arts academy and later attended the National University of Colombia. His early works showcased his fascination with traditional European art and the works of artists such... moreFernando Botero Angulo was a renowned Colombian figurative artist and sculptor best known for his signature style, also known as "Boterismo", which depicts people and figures in large, exaggerated volume. He was considered the most recognized and quoted artist from Latin America in his lifetime. Botero studied at the local fine arts academy and later attended the National University of Colombia. His early works showcased his fascination with traditional European art and the works of artists such as Diego Velázquez and Francisco de Goya. However it wasn't until the 1950s that Botero's unique style emerged. His paintings and sculptures often depicted everyday scenes and subjects, ranging from still lifes and landscapes to portraits and historical events. Botero's masterful use of color and his ability to evoke emotion through his exaggerated figures made him a distinct and influential figure in the art world. Throughout his career, Botero achieved international recognition and acclaim. His works were exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Centre Pompidou in Paris. Botero was known for his philanthropy and commitment to social causes. He established the Botero Foundation to support art education and cultural initiatives in Colombia, aiming to nurture young talent and preserve the country's artistic heritage.
Samuel Joseph Wurzelbacher, popularly known as "Joe the Plumber," was an American conservative activist and commentator. He gained national attention during the 2008 United States presidential election campaign for raising concerns that Obama's tax policy would increase taxes on small business owners. Wurzelbacher became a symbol of conservative values and small business owners. Wurzelbacher first gained prominence when he confronted then-Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama during a c... moreSamuel Joseph Wurzelbacher, popularly known as "Joe the Plumber," was an American conservative activist and commentator. He gained national attention during the 2008 United States presidential election campaign for raising concerns that Obama's tax policy would increase taxes on small business owners. Wurzelbacher became a symbol of conservative values and small business owners. Wurzelbacher first gained prominence when he confronted then-Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama during a campaign stop in Ohio. During the exchange, Wurzelbacher expressed concerns about Obama's proposed tax policies and their potential impact on small businesses. The encounter was captured on video and quickly spread across various media platforms, catapulting Wurzelbacher into the national spotlight. Following the incident, Wurzelbacher became a prominent conservative voice, advocating for limited government intervention, lower taxes, and individual liberties. He embraced his newfound role as a political commentator, making appearances on news programs and talk shows, and even authoring a book titled "Joe the Plumber: Fighting for the American Dream." Over time he became less visible in the political arena, and his media appearances became infrequent. He remained an active supporter of conservative causes. His story serves as a reminder of the power of individual voices and the unpredictable nature of fame and influence in the modern media landscape.
