Sir Richard Branson at the UN Conference on Sustainable Development June, 2012
Picture credit: UNclimatechange
When going through my mail this morning, a surprising story presented itself.
The unexpected subject of this great news, is not one who normally comes to mind when thinking of Endangered Wildlife, but there he was, right there in my mailbox, Billionaire Richard Branson.
The story was concerning a new edition to an already growing group at his Necker Island home in the Caribbean.
I was not aware that Branson had been rescuing Endangered Wildlife for years and in co-operation with several Wildlife Groups, was using his vast wealth for such a good purpose.
Branson’s involvements in Humanitarian and Environmental Issues are the only things that will be addressed here, as it would take an eternity to describe the total sum of the man’s often outrageous, or occasionally notorious life.
It is not often that I find that a Billionaire and I have much in common, but in Branson’s case this is not entirely true.
His lifelong admiration for Nelson Mandela’s Humanitarian efforts and causes and his passion for protecting the Environment, including Endangered Animals, are two areas where we are in complete agreement.
Branson’s Island home in the Caribbean has been a source of much criticism, as many believe that he only lives there to avoid taxes on his vast wealth, but for whatever reason, he has managed to make this place a refuge for wildlife and it is for this reason that I admire him and am writing about him today.
My huge respect for Branson as a Humanitarian, is only superseded by my admiration of his sincere efforts to care for Endangered Animals on his little island in paradise.
As he continues to add to his animal family, Branson has wisely teamed up with the Turtle Conservancy
The most recent guests to be welcomed at his Island retreat are several Endangered Tortoises.
Prior to them, have been a wide assortment of mammals, birds, reptiles and other, amounting to a total of 140 species.
As one of the wealthiest men in the world, Branson does not need to do any of this.
He could continue to carry on every single day of his life as the famous, carefree playboy of the world, as many already believe that he is.
But for me at least, this particular side of such a multifaceted man shows that he is a complicated, many layered person who has earned my respect, at least for this.
One amusing mention in the story, is about a web site that Branson has had set up, with a new family member or addition to be “shown each week.”
Regardless of the flamboyant outer shell this powerful, passionate man consistently shows to most of the world, in my opinion, there is more importantly, another softer, kinder side, and it is for this that I will always thank him.
Thank you Richard, for what you are trying to do with the Endangered Animals on your island, or Branson’s Bunch.
Places to learn more:
Richard Branson adds endangered tortoises to Necker Island
Necker – more species than any other island on earth
New tortoises on Necker Island
tahtonka - A Journey Through Global Culture 