I don't knwo if he is the best fit because he was more of an inventor but I would think Tesla would have a place on this list.
there are a lot of people that could be on this list but it is hard to argue with the people on it, many came from mediocre upbringings to become brands
I particularly like the founder of Wal-Mart's quote: There is only one boss. the customer. and he can fire anybody in the company"