Guy Laliberte

Guy Laliberté, a Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist, is best known as the co-founder of Cirque du Soleil, an internationally renowned circus company that has captivated over 90 million people worldwide. Beyond his success in the entertainment industry, Laliberté also made a name for himself in the world of poker, participating in high-stakes tournaments and games. In 2012, he organized the Big One for One Drop poker tournament, which required a $1 million buy-in and raised over $5 million for the One Drop Foundation, a foundation he founded that is devoted to making clean and safe water accessible around the world.

As a testament to his entrepreneurial prowess, Laliberté was named the Ernst & Young Canadian Entrepreneur of the Year in 2006, a recognition that was followed by the distinction of Ernst & Young World Entrepreneur of the Year in 2007. His selling of 90% of his stock in Cirque du Soleil in 2015 and the remaining 10% in 2020 marked the end of an era for Laliberté and the beginning of new ventures. In 2017, he founded Lune Rouge, which develops and invests in arts, technology, and entertainment projects. That same year, Laliberté started his professional DJing career and founded Froooogs Records, which ignites human connection by leveraging the power of music.

Laliberté's dedication to philanthropy and environmental conservation is evident in his publication of "Gaia" in 2011, a book featuring photos of Earth from space he collected after becoming the first Canadian space tourist in 2009, with proceeds directed towards the One Drop Foundation. His contributions to society have earned him numerous accolades, including the National Order of Quebec in 1997, the highest distinction awarded by the Government of Quebec, and the Order of Canada in 2004, the country's highest distinction. Time magazine also recognized him as one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2004, further solidifying his legacy as a visionary and pioneer.