From Northampton to the World: The Inspiring Journey of Tom and SunButter Skincare

Chat Session 177 with Tom

🎧 Catch Up Link

Topic- A Life-Changing Encounter and the Birth of a Sustainable Vision

Monday 19^th October 2026 1pm https://rppfm.com.au

A Humble Beginning in Northampton

Tom’s story begins in the heart of England, in the town of Northampton. Born and raised amidst the green rolling hills and lush countryside, he grew up as far from the ocean as you could get in the UK. Yet, even in this serene setting, Tom’s curiosity and love for nature set the stage for an adventurous life ahead.

A Call to the Tropics: Embracing the Ocean’s Wonders

After finishing high school, Tom felt the irresistible call of the tropics and the ocean. He embarked on a gap year that would change his life forever, traveling to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Vanuatu. During this time, he discovered his passion for underwater exploration and became a certified SCUBA diving instructor. This new path opened doors to work across the globe, from Zanzibar and Mozambique to Mexico and Croatia, immersing himself in diverse marine environments and cultures.

Diving into Conservation: From Instructor to Guardian of Nature

Tom’s love for marine life and conservation deepened as he transitioned from teaching diving to working in conservation management. His journey led him to the Seychelles, where he managed the renowned Cousin Island Special Reserve—a 27-hectare sanctuary teeming with life. The island was a haven for giant land tortoises, nesting sea turtles, and an incredible coral reef restoration program. With 250,000 nesting sea birds calling the island home, Tom was at the forefront of protecting some of the world’s most precious ecosystems.

A New Chapter in Africa and Australia

After two fulfilling years managing Cousin Island, Tom faced the challenge of transitioning to mainland Africa to further his conservation career. Despite several attempts, he found himself back in Australia, working on the Ningaloo Reef—a world-famous marine sanctuary. It was here, in Perth, that fate introduced him to Sacha, thanks to a mutual friend. Their meeting marked the beginning of a new chapter, blending their shared love for the environment and adventure.

The Birth of SunButter: A Passion Project Turned Business

While exploring the Ningaloo Reef, Tom faced a common issue: finding a suitable, reef-safe sunscreen for his SCUBA trips and citizen science projects. Frustrated by the options available, Sacha decided to make her own. She whipped up a natural, plastic-free sunscreen that became an instant hit among friends and fellow divers. Word spread quickly along the Ningaloo community, and soon their homemade product was gaining popularity.

Recognizing the potential to make a bigger impact, Tom and Sacha decided to formalize their efforts. They partnered with a TGA-licensed manufacturer to bring SunButter skincare to a wider audience. Their goal was clear: create a sustainable, eco-friendly sunscreen that was safe for humans, marine life, and the planet. SunButter was launched as Australia’s first plastic-free, certified palm oil-free sunscreen—an industry first.

Growing a Global Brand with a Purpose

Today, SunButter skincare is a thriving business. The brand is stocked in over a dozen countries and more than 1,000 retailers across Australia, with BCF leading the charge as their most widespread partner. Based in Hastings, the small but passionate team behind SunButter is committed to making a difference—one product at a time.

What sets SunButter apart is its unwavering dedication to environmental responsibility. The company donates 50% of its profits to conservation efforts, offsets all calculable emissions, and continues to push boundaries in the reef-safe, plastic-free, and human-friendly skincare industry. Their products not only protect your skin but also help protect the planet.

Balancing Business, Family, and Conservation

Despite the demands of running a growing business, Tom remains grounded by his passion for wildlife and nature. He balances co-managing SunButter alongside Sacha while raising two outdoor-loving children. Whether leading wildlife or birding trips in Australia or abroad, Tom continues to pursue his love for adventure and conservation.

Tom and Sasha-SunButter Founders

Looking Ahead: A Future Rooted in Sustainability

Tom’s journey from Northampton to the far corners of the world exemplifies the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. His story is a testament to how one person’s love for the environment can spark change on a global scale. With SunButter skincare, Tom and Sacha are not just creating innovative products—they are championing a movement toward a more sustainable and compassionate future.

As they continue to grow and inspire, their message remains clear: protecting the planet starts with small, meaningful actions, and everyone can make a difference.

Discover more about an Australian-owned brand dedicated to natural sunscreens and skincare. Make a purchase today and learn more about how Sunbutter is making a positive impact in our community.

www.sunbutter.com.au

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