Wonderful news indeed!
Sonu Shivdasani, the visionary founder and CEO of Soneva Resorts and Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the world of tourism, sustainability, and charity. The King's New Year Honours 2023 Overseas and International List has honored him with the title of Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).
Sonu, who hails from England and holds degrees from Eton College and Oxford University, fell in love with the Maldives during his time at Oxford. Together with his wife Eva, he opened the first Soneva resort, Soneva Fushi, in 1995 in the Baa Atoll, with a groundbreaking concept that blended luxury hospitality with environmental responsibility. This "castaway" resort went on to become a game-changer in the tourism industry of the island nation.
In the same year, Sonu and Eva established Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas and followed it up with the launch of the Evason hotel group in 1997. These companies expanded their reach to Southeast Asia and Europe, establishing several landmark properties. Sonu and Eva then sold the management contracts for both companies as part of their "One Owner, One Operator, One Philosophy" strategy
Sonu expressed his gratitude for receiving the OBE, saying, "Receiving an OBE is an incredible honor and I share it with all of Soneva's friends and family. This recognition reinforces our founding vision, which is placing purpose over profit." Soneva has always been at the forefront of advocating for greater environmental accountability in the hospitality sector and beyond. Their resorts, including Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani, and Soneva Kiri, are carbon-neutral with a 2% environmental levy added to every stay. These proceeds go towards the Soneva Foundation, a not-for-profit UK-registered trust that helps offset carbon emissions and funds purposeful projects around the world.
Soneva has also supported Soneva Namoona, an independent Maldivian NGO, with funding from the Soneva Foundation. These funds are used to help phase out single-use plastics, improve recycling efforts, and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards in the Maldives.
In conclusion, Sonu Shivdasani's unwavering commitment to responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, and charitable causes has earned him the well-deserved recognition of being named an Officer of the Order of the British Empire.
Please join me in congratulating our long-time HoteliersGuild International Ambassador, HoteliersGuild Academy of Hospitality Arts member and good friend Sonu - we are honoured and privileged to count on your continued support for our common cause!
