Ambitious youngsters can't emulate that level of success without top level networking. That's how public school works. No slight on the man, I think he's been amazing for the consumer, not having a go.
Twenty years working in business though shows up the importance of connections and background, they give you a helluva head start. O'Leary was Tony Ryan's man, that opens doors closed to most at that level. Branson also has very wealthy parents who would make sure little Richard never ended up on the street if his business went bust. That's not an avenue open to most people, especially now.