Karma Samdrup
Business Executive
Businessman and philanthropist who became known for his art dealings and passion for environmental causes.
He grew up in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, where he and his brothers grew up with a passion for animals and the environment.
China Central Television named him Philanthropist of the Year in 2006.
He and his family have always had run-ins with the law. In 2010, he was sentenced to 15 years for allegedly purchasing $10,000 worth of stolen goods.
He and fellow environmentalist, Edward Abbey, both worked passionately for animal rights.