One international business personality whose name has become synonymous with the development of our democracy is Virgin boss Richard Branson.

One international business personality whose name has become synonymous with the development of our democracy is Virgin boss Richard Branson.

Few overseas entrepreneurs have shown their commitment to the future of this country as has Branson, who not only has opened franchises of his businesses in South Africa but sponsors the Branson School of Entrepreneurship here.

The British tycoon witnessed a highlight of his philanthropic efforts at the weekend when a graduate of his school, Sonwabile Mngenela, won a national entrepreneurship competition for his business model.

We should count ourselves lucky for having such a great supporter of our democracy.