The Cocoon Collection’s Commitment to Community and the Next-Generation
Zanzibar’s rapid tourism growth is reshaping the island, and The Cocoon Collection is helping ensure that this progress supports local communities through the impactful work of the Sofia Luna Azzola Foundation.
Zanzibar is a destination we are all familiar with, famed for its flawlessly white sand beaches, enticingly clear water and tropical climate. As tourism in Zanzibar is increasing at a rapid pace (and there is no wonder why) there is an ever-greater responsibility to ensure that this growth benefits not only visitors, but the communities and environment that make the island so special.
The Cocoon Collection, home to six stunning resorts and islands across Zanzibar and the Maldives, is committed to creating a lasting, positive impact on the communities surrounding its properties.
At the heart of this commitment is the Sofia Luna Azzola Foundation, a non-profit organisation established by the Azzola family in Zanzibar. Since then, the foundation has helped create valuable opportunities for local children, with a mission to ensure they have access to safe, inspiring and well-equipped learning environments. Let’s take a look at their remarkable journey and the difference it continues to make: .
2016 - The foundation was established by the Azzola family
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2017 - Library Renovation
The Foundation began by renovating the library room at Kilindi Government Primary & Secondary School. Their mission started off strong by creating a more engaging and accessible learning space for students.
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2018 - Nursery Classroom Development
A nursery classroom at Kilindi School was fully renovated and equipped with teaching and learning materials, in line with government standards. The Foundation also supported the initiative by funding teachers’ salaries until 2020.
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2019 - Swahib Al-Huda Nursery School, Kendwa
A milestone project, the Foundation built an entirely new kindergarten and guaranteed teachers wages, school uniforms and materials for 200 children.
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2022 - Thaqafa Nursery School, Jendweni
A newly built nursery school was opened in Kendwa with 6 classrooms, 2 teacher’s offices, 4 standard toilets and learning & teaching materials.
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2023 - Pongwe Primary & Secondary School
In collaboration with the local government, the Foundation completed a comprehensive renovation.
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Present
The Foundation continues to support the education and well-being of Zanzibar’s local communities. The students are also hosted weekly for breakfast at Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa, swimming lessons are organised for children, and guests and staff visit the Nursery school twice weekly.
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Looking Ahead
The Foundation is currently working towards establishing a Youth Football Camp in Kendwa Village.
This incredible foundation is a powerful reminder of how travel can create meaningful change long after a guest’s stay has ended. By investing in education and creating brighter opportunities for Zanzibar’s next generation, The Cocoon Collection is building a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the luxury experience.
Bawe Island: an Exceptional Gourmet Journey begins
Bawe Island is set to become Zanzibar’s newest fine‑dining hotspot this November as it hosts the inaugural “Berton & Friends” event by The Cocoon Collection, led by Michelin‑starred Chef Andrea Berton.
We are delighted to share that from 22 to 29 November 2026, Bawe Island, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, will host a landmark fine‑dining event set to make history: “Berton & Friends”.
Michelin‑starred Chef Andrea Berton
This new format by The Cocoon Collection is designed to become a signature tradition across our resorts in the Maldives and Zanzibar, bringing together leading figures in Italian and international gastronomy to create unforgettable culinary experiences.
Bawe Island will welcome the very first edition of this format—an absolute debut that positions Zanzibar as a rising capital of signature fine dining. And this is only the beginning: in the months ahead, the same format will reach The Cocoon Collection resorts in the Maldives, growing edition after edition with new internationally acclaimed Chefs.
As the name suggests, the driving force behind “Berton & Friends” is Michelin‑starred Chef Andrea Berton, who will invite close friends and prominent personalities from the world of gastronomy to join him at each edition.
We are not revealing yet who the “Friends” joining Chef Berton for this first, highly anticipated edition will be. What we can share is that these are names capable of leaving their mark, spanning fine pastry and Michelin stars.
The countdown has officially begun. This November, the place to be is Bawe Island. The Chefs, the programme and all the details to take part will be revealed in the coming weeks—because truly great occasions deserve the wait.
Discover The Cocoon Collection’s enhanced SUMMER OFFER:
Booking Period:
From 28th July 2026 until 30th September 2026
Market Validity: All markets
Offer Code: ENSUM-BAWE
Travel period:
From 28th July until 23rd December 2026
30% discount on room rate
Travel period:
From 28th July 2026 until 23rd December 2027
(All Year Round – No Blackout Period)
Free meal upgrade from Half Board to All Inclusive
Terms & Conditions:
Combinable with Honeymooners Offer.
This offer substitutes the previously sent Summer Offer.
Not combinable with contracted repeater's discount.
Discount on room rate only, not combinable with Early Bird Offer.
Discount on room rate only, not applicable for extra adult and children.
Discount not applicable on meal plan supplement.
30% discount is valid only for stays from 28th July 2026 till 23rd December 2026.
Room discount is not valid for stays in Sultan Palace.
No minimum stay is required to be entitled for Enhanced Summer Offer.
All Inclusive upgrade is valid for stays in all room categories, including Sultan Palace.
All Inclusive upgrade is applicable for all room guests, even extra adult and children.
Full Board supplement price as per contract.
Cancellation of existing bookings and re-booking will not be entitled to the offer.
Send your request or enquiries to: booking@baweisland.com
Three Different Ways to Experience Zanzibar with The Cocoon Collection
A short insightful look into the 3 Cocoon Collection properties in Zanzibar and what makes them so unique.
Wondering which Zanzibar stay would suit your clients?
Island Pongwe • Gold Zanzibar • Bawe Island
Choosing where to stay in Zanzibar often comes down to the kind of holiday your clients want — quiet and simple, social and activity‑driven, or exclusive with plenty of space. We put together a quick look at how Island Pongwe, Gold Zanzibar and Bawe Island each deliver a different experience.
Island Pongwe - the ideal retreat for guests looking for Eco, Slow and luxuriously simple:
Island Pongwe suits travellers who want calm, privacy and a slower pace. It’s a small, female‑led eco‑lodge with a “back‑to‑basics but still comfortable” approach - we like to describe it as a ‘luxury‑Robinson‑Crusoe experience’ — no Wi‑Fi, fresh local produce, and an emphasis on switching off. Days follow the rhythm of the tides as the Eastern side of the island sees a bigger tidal shift each day: swimming, kayaking, paddle‑boarding, spa treatments, or walking the exposed sandbanks at low tide. Guests can explore Pongwe Bay and the nearby village when they want movement and interaction with the local culture, then return to the island for quiet time. It’s ideal for guests who value simplicity, nature and a peaceful base.
Gold Zanzibar - A classic beach holiday with buzzing energy
Gold Zanzibar is the right fit if your guests want a lively atmosphere, long beach days and plenty of activity. It sits on one of the island’s best beaches, known for soft sand, great sunsets and minimal tidal impact — which means more consistent swimming and water sports. The resort is large, with varied room categories, multiple dining options and a steady holiday buzz created by both locals in and around the town and with international guests staying in the hotel. The hotel offers a generously sized private beach in front of the hotel. Guests will love Gold if they enjoy a sociable environment, easy access to facilities, and a beach that’s active from morning to evening.
Bawe Island - Space, Privacy and Marine Access
Bawe Island works well for guests who want exclusivity without feeling isolated. 15 minutes by boats from Stonetown, Bawe has 70 villas spaced across the island, it offers privacy and room to breathe while still providing full resort facilities. The surrounding waters form part of a protected marine area, and the island has a dedicated water‑sports centre for non‑motorised activities like kayaking and snorkelling. Diving can be arranged through off‑island excursions, usually a short boat trip away. Bawe is a good match for guests who want comfort, nature and a quieter atmosphere than the main island, but with more structure and amenities than a small eco‑lodge.
