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Matt Porteous, the founder of Ocean Culture, Becomes the First Soneva Namoona Guardian

Soneva Namoona Guardian Matt Porteous

Soneva Namoona, a Soneva initiative that seeks to radically change the way the Maldives manages its waste, recently announced its first Soneva Namoona Guardian: Matt Porteous, the founder of Ocean Culture Life and the Managing Director of Studio M. Soneva Namoona is a partnership between three local islands (Maalhos, Dharavandhoo and Kihaadhoo), Soneva, marine plastic foundation Common Seas, and the government of the Maldives. The mission of Soneva Namoona is to design a sustainable waste management system that can benefit the whole nation and prevent plastic entering the sea. The initiative centres around the three pillars of Reduce, Recycle, Inspire. 

At the heart of Soneva Namoona is Reduce, a radical reduction in the volume of plastic arriving on the islands. Soneva assisted in the establishment of a water bottling plant on the island of Maalhos to desalinate and mineralise sea water, which is distributed in reusable glass bottles, eliminating the need for water bottled in plastic. Recycle is the second strand of the programme and focuses on the responsible disposal of waste. Maalhos is the first island to open a Soneva-sponsored Eco Centro with machinery that will include a wood chipper and a glass crusher. The third component is Inspire which aims to foster a love of the ocean and the environment. The belief is that through water sports, education and festivities, children will lose their fear of the ocean and learn to love it, and thus protect it. 

The goal of Namoona Guardians is to build a network of like-minded people around the world who are committed to making Soneva Namoona is a success. Namoona Guardians can be environmentalists, conservationists, surfers, sailors, athletes, and artists who have a passion for safeguarding the environment. They are innovators, leaders, visionaries and pioneers. Matt recently did a takeover of the Soneva Namoona Instagram account, @namooonabaa, to talk about his work documenting how the Maldivian islands of Maalhos, Dharavandhoo, and Kihaadhoo have become pioneers of the waste-to-wealth philosophy and setting examples in reducing marine plastic waste.  

I’m incredibly fortunate as a photographer to spend time with amazing people. In the case of Soneva Namoona, this means telling stories of the real heroes of Maldivian islands – the community collecting ocean plastic for the benefit of future generations, the team mentoring children on neighbouring islands to become ocean stewards, the waste experts at Soneva who are designing a sustainable way of managing waste that can benefit the whole country. Change starts with individuals and passion. Programmes like Soneva Namoona are so important for creating the systems needed to tackle complex problems. But what is so exemplary about it is the focus on nurturing people and their passion. My passion is in sharing these stories, connecting like-minded individuals and corporations, helping create ripples of change across the world

Matt Porteous, Founder of Ocean Culture Life

Matt’s love and delight in his surroundings are evident in his work. He captures and reveals the expression and detail that is seldom evident to the naked eye. Matt is one of the UK’s leading photographers both in and out of the water, where his passion for oceans has taken him to some of the most beautiful places on the planet and connected him to some of the world’s greatest changemakers.  

The Jersey-based photographer was chosen by The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as the official photographer to photograph Prince George to mark his Hi third birthday and fifth birthdays. Matt was also commissioned to shoot Prince HLouis’ christening at Clarence House. Later in 2018 he was tasked with capturing last year’s Christmas card photograph for the Duke and Duchess’s family portrait in their country home, in Norfolk. 

Ocean Culture Life, a global community of positive ocean storytellers who collaborate on various projects. Ocean Culture Life’s team creates stunning and impactful content for their network of ambassadors and charities, collectively spreading awareness on everything ocean related. One of the project’s goals is to remind people of what the oceans look like and how they can play a pivotal role in supporting ocean guardians through their own businesses and charitable missions.   

Soneva is a pioneering family of hospitality properties and products, offering holistic encounters in luxurious and inspiring environments – from world class hotels to outstanding natural locations. Combining luxury with a conscientious approach to sustainability and the environment, and proactively changing the nature of hospitality, it delivers intuitive service and meaningful experiences to the guests. Soneva currently owns and operates Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani and Soneva in Aqua in the Maldives and Soneva Kiri in Thailand.  

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Lily Beach Resort & Spa Nominated for Prestigious World Travel Awards 2025

Lily Beach Resort & Spa Nominated for Prestigious World Travel Awards 2025

Lily Beach Resort & Spa, located in the Maldives, proudly announces its nominations for three prestigious honors at the 2025 World Travel Awards. Specifically, the resort has earned recognition in the categories of Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort 2025, Maldives’ Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025, and Maldives’ Leading Family Resort 2025. These nominations celebrate Lily Beach for its unwavering commitment to exceptional service, top-tier luxury, and family-friendly offerings, making it one of the top destinations in the Maldives.

The Platinum Plan: A Premier All-Inclusive Experience

One of the resort’s most notable features is its renowned Platinum Plan, which stands as one of the most comprehensive all-inclusive packages in the region. This plan offers a variety of premium dining options, top-shelf beverages, exciting excursions, and a wide range of water activities. As a result, guests can enjoy a carefree and indulgent experience, with the Platinum Plan providing both variety and value. Consequently, it sets a benchmark for luxury all-inclusive offerings in the Maldives.

Family-Friendly Accommodations and Activities

For families, Lily Beach provides the ideal getaway, offering a perfect balance of togetherness and privacy. The resort features spacious multi-bedroom accommodations, such as the Beach Residence and Beach Family Villa, which allow families to stay close while still enjoying personal space. Furthermore, the Turtles Kids’ Club provides a fun-filled environment with supervised activities, while adults can unwind in adults-only spaces, such as AQVA, the overwater bar and restaurant. In addition to this, the resort offers a gym and tennis court, giving guests plenty of opportunities to stay active and enjoy family-friendly recreation.

Exquisite Dining with a View

Dining at Lily Beach is also an experience in itself. Guests can indulge in everything from international buffet selections at Lily Maa to Asian fusion cuisine at the overwater Tamarind restaurant. Not only do the diverse dining options cater to a wide range of tastes, but the spectacular ocean views and the warm hospitality of the Maldivian staff also contribute to an unforgettable culinary journey.

Wellness and Relaxation at Tamara Spa

Moreover, for those seeking rest and rejuvenation, the Tamara Spa offers a peaceful sanctuary with a variety of healing treatments. Set over the water, the spa provides an ideal setting for guests to unwind with restorative massages. Additionally, Lily Beach’s Wellness Week with Ali Young, taking place this November, offers a unique opportunity for guests to engage in a transformative wellness retreat. This seven-day program blends ancient sound healing techniques with the Maldives’ tranquil environment, helping guests rejuvenate both body and mind.

A Commitment to Excellence and Luxury

These nominations reflect Lily Beach’s consistent dedication to excellence, further cementing its reputation as a premier destination for families, couples, and luxury travelers. Whether it’s indulgence, adventure, or relaxation, the resort offers something for everyone, and these nominations only highlight its exceptional offerings.

Voting for the 2025 World Travel Awards is now open, and Lily Beach Resort & Spa invites its guests and supporters to cast their votes and help secure these well-deserved accolades. Click here to vote

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