Quinton Van Der Burgh - Living For Impact
An entrepreneur with his finger on the pulse of business, Quinton Van Der Burgh is one of South Africa’s ultimate success stories. One of the youngest billionaires, he is a true maverick with extensive knowledge of marketing, mergers and business development in the telecommunications industry; import/export; property development; automotive; industrial and trading and mining industries.
As a philanthropist Quinton has made ithis mission to help not only the people ofSouth Africa but hundreds of thousands around the world. He founded theQVDB Foundation in hopes of making a difference for the people of South Africa and in doing so, inspiring others to do the same. In his latest venture he has partnered up with celebrity photographer John Russo, who has shot the likes of Serena Williams, Viola Davis, Julia Roberts, Matthew McConaughey and Leonardo DiCaprio to name a few, to produce the book 100 Making a Difference.Seven years ago, John had a vision: To tell the stories about individuals who care for their communities and give back to others. These individuals, celebrities and philanthropists alike, share their stories, their inspirations and tales of what they are doing to make a difference. As a society we are often consumed with our everyday lives. Detaching ourselves from humanity with smartphones and the internet. As a species we need to remember there are those less fortunate and there are those that need a voice. To speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.
To give a helping hand to those in need. These people are citizens of the world, showing Entrepreneur love, caring and devotion to others. “The 100 Making a Difference is a collection of amazing human beings who have devoted a large portion of their life to philanthropy, ”says Russo.” I loved hearing their stories and seeing the work they have done. In a world where we are judged on how many followers we have or likes we receive, being around these iconic, selfless human beings was nothing short of amazing. I know I am a different person because of this journey. The material items I loved so much and thoughtI must have to be happy really have no place in my current mindset. I am more focused and aware of the suffering and inhumane acts that go on in our world each day.
”Van Der Burgh, reminds us that “success is meaningful when it positively impacts the world. 100 Making a Difference is a book that will, hopefully, remind you of how helping humanity should be at the forefront of your daily thoughts and actions. That you don’t have to make a six-figure donation to a charity in order to make a difference. A smile, your time, a helping hand—these are some of the smallest things that can make a large difference to someone in need.” From building freshwater wells in Swaziland, Africa (Seth Maxwell) to raising millions of dollars to fight the global AIDS epidemic (Sir Elton John) to making sure “Every Mother Counts” (Christy Turlington) and being a champion for our firefighters’ families (Vicki Minor), these incredible people have shown the true meaning of life and inspire us to strive to be abetter people.
The collection stars recognizable names such as George Clooney, Maria Shriver, Gwyneth Paltrow, Malala and many more. Side by side with powerful black and white portraits taken by John, are intimate personal stories of how each became passionate about their cause. Proceeds from the book, out in July, will benefit the charities listed within its pages, and there will be fundraising events in major cities including Los Angeles,New York, Miami and Chicago. To pre-order the book visit www.100MakingaDifference.com.
