10. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, affectionately known as ‘Lula’, faced relentless mockery for his humble, working-class origins and lack of formal education. Many in Brazil’s elite doubted he could ever rise to the nation’s highest office. Despite these doubts, Lula became one of Brazil’s most influential presidents, championing social reforms and presiding over a period of significant economic growth (via BBC News).
