I like the idea of using the leader of a NGO as a business leader you admire. I would speculate that this would be a slight deviation from the typical essay responses the committee will read, and thus will can help your application stand out in a positive way.

It's also an excellent choice from the perspective of combining professional strengths and following one's passions. Most NGO leaders have a professional background that was formative to them in their leadership, as well as courage that led them to follow their passions.

Great question! I bet it will be a great essay! Good luck!

A nonprofit leader can definitely work as he or she has an organization to lead and mold. A human rights leader may be a bit more of a stretch if he or she is a bit more of an individual contributor.

The key is discussing the specific practices that or she has utilized to move the needle, grow the org, change the game, inspire...and perhaps how this person has affected your own behavior within your orgs.

NGO leaders are frequently, even usually, people with extensive experience in the business world. For a large NGO, a proven, successful businessman would be desirable to head the organization, so this is definitely a valid choice for Business Leader I Admire. Just make sure to stress the business aspect of what they accomplished for their organization and then tie it in to why you admire him or her.