It was while moonlighting as a mini-cab driver during his student days that Mr Gill became involved in politics.

BBC: Parmjit Singh Gill

"I took a decision a long time ago that when I became involved in politics I would try shield my family from the glare of public life, " he said.

BBC: Motlanthe: South Africa's safe hands

While her father became involved in the Zionist politics that gave birth to Israel, Mona bent her mind to her opening game.

ECONOMIST: Mona Karff