Fashion stylist-turned-tour guide becomes one of Boracay’s most exciting tourism advocates on social media
Jamil Sultan’s journey from Manila to Boracay proves that life’s biggest challenges often lead to the most rewarding changes
Jamil Sultan was once a well-known name in Manila’s fashion scene, styling celebrities and working behind the scenes on photoshoots and popular teleseryes. However, when the pandemic swept through the country, it forced him—and many others—to reassess his life. For Jamil, this meant leaving the fast-paced world of fashion behind and starting anew in Boracay as a certified tour guide.
“I was a celebrity fashion stylist back in Manila, working for photoshoots, teleseryes, etc.,” Jamil recalls of his pre-pandemic life. With the stress of lockdowns and the uncertainty of the fashion industry, he felt trapped.
The escape? Boracay, a place he initially visited to “refresh and recharge.” But what was meant to be a temporary getaway became something far more permanent when the pandemic restrictions stranded him on the island.
“Finding peace and contentment on the island during the pandemic, I explored and decided to promote Boracay as a tour guide,” he shares.
While becoming a tour guide wasn’t part of his plan, the beauty and serenity of Boracay presented him with a new path. “I trained for DOT accreditation, and that’s how my journey started,” he says.
The shift from fashion stylist to tour guide wasn’t just about a change in profession—it was about survival. “It was very difficult during the pandemic. I couldn’t go home or see my family, and anxiety crept in as I was all by myself,” Jamil shares. Financial struggles and isolation weighed heavily on him, but the island became his refuge.
Becoming a guide allowed Jamil to connect with Boracay in ways he never expected. “Over time, I’ve embraced it, considering myself an ambassador of this island,” he says. The role has given him the chance to share Boracay’s hidden spots, local culture, and unique experiences with tourists from all over the world. But more than that, it has allowed him to find purpose in a place he now considers home.
As Jamil reflects on his journey, he speaks of personal growth. “As a tour guide, I’ve learned more about my resilience, adaptability, and capacity for empathy,” he says. Guiding tourists around Boracay has taught him more about himself than his previous career ever could.
His social media presence has also become a part of his newfound career. His engaging posts and interviews with tourists provide a firsthand look into life on the island.
When asked if he sees himself pursuing a career in social media, he’s open to the idea. “I enjoy sharing insights about life in Boracay and would love to inspire others with my experiences here,” he says.
Jamil’s entrepreneurial spirit took root during his time as a tour guide, leading him to establish JS Luxurie Travel Services, a travel agency catering to those seeking personalized vacations. “Through hard work, patience, and dedication, I established my own agency catering to discerning travelers,” he says. JS Luxurie offers curated travel experiences, focusing on making each trip unique and unforgettable.
Images from Jamil Sultan’s Instagram account
