Richard Branson
Sir Richard Charles Nicholas Branson was born on the 18th July 1950. He is an English Businessman and investor. He is best known for creating the Virgin Group. According to Forbes 2014 list of billionaires, he is the seventh richest citizen of the United Kingdom with an estimated net worth of US$4.9 billion.
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Engagement in Cultural Diplomacy[edit]
Humanitarian Causes[edit]
In March 2008 invited former PM Tony Blair, Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales and Larry Page of Google to his private island in the Caribbean in order to discuss global warning related problems facing the world. After Saddam Hussein had invaded Kuwait, Branson organised to fly 40,000 blankets to refugees flying into Jordan. He had to go to great lengths to make sure government ministers ensured the supplies got to them. Branson played a crucial role in persuading Elton John to sing Candle in the Wind at Princess Diana’s funeral which raised more than $40 million for charity. In 2004 Branson established Virgin Unite, his non-profit foundation. The Foundation was established to tackle tough social and environmental problems. Branson and Virgin Unite also support a number of initiatives that led to economic empowerment and healthy communities. These include creating opportunities for disadvantaged young people in the US and the UK and creating sustainable health care models in Africa.
Philanthropic Donations[edit]
Branson has pledged to donate £3 billion and all profits from his travel firms over the next 10 years to combat global warming.
