Banwa Private Island Appoints Brand Ambassadors

Banwa Private Island is delighted to announce the appointment of Rob Chappelhow and Ken Beattie as its first-ever Brand Ambassadors.

Ken and Rob are excited to share their in-depth understanding of the extraordinary beauty and fragile biodiversity of Banwa Private Island with potential guests and industry professionals alike. Both are uniquely placed to share personal stories and knowledge, having been right there at the beginning of the deserted tropical island’s transformation into the verdant garden paradise it is today.

London-based, Rob Chappelhow first visited the island in 2009 when it was a seldom seen coconut plantation frequented only by Hawksbill Turtles returning to the pristine white sands to lay their eggs. In 2013, Rob became Project Director, overseeing the island’s sustainable development. He says: “By 2019, we were ready to welcome guests to experience Banwa Private Island’s’ concept of informal luxury in a contemporary setting. I am thrilled to bring my experience of its evolution to the Brand Ambassador role. Having watched the native beach forest grow to provide such privacy and tranquility, and witnessed the rejuvenation of the coral reef and the island’s wildlife, it’s an honour to once more be part of the passionate team.”

Ken Beattie, currently based in Taiwan, was also involved in Banwa Private Island’s inception and over recent years has been integral in establishing Aquos Foundation’s CSR programs, reaching out to the local communities to foster positive and sustainable relationships. ‘’There are so many compelling reasons to visit Banwa Private Island including the exceptional personalised service and the numerous land and water-based leisure activities. Having dived every reef in the surrounding Marine Protected Area, I have an intimate understanding of the region’s incredible marine life and the unique experiences available to our guests”, says Ken of his appointment.

Nestled in one of the world’s last frontiers of natural biodiversity, north-eastern Palawan in the Philippines, the island sanctuary boasts breathtaking views, white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Rob and Ken will also fly the flag of the Aquos Foundation, whose conservation initiatives support, nurture and protect Banwa Private Island’s delicate ecosystem, marine environment and the local community. Banwa Private Island’s Peter Nilsson commented: “We are delighted to welcome Rob Chappelhow and Ken Beattie back to the island team. They are the perfect Brand Ambassadors for Banwa Private Island, with their deep understanding of our very own brand of seamless service and sustainable luxury.”