2026 Star Women in Convenience winner: Mariam Aly
Mariam Aly
Senior key account executive
Rothmans Benson & Hedges
How did you get into this business?
I came across an article that spoke about Phillip Morris’s ambitious goal of becoming smoke free. It caught my attention because I thought that this was a bold, brave and revolutionary change. I wanted to be a part of that change.
What are you most proud of during the last 12-18 months?
In the past few years, I’ve built amazing relationships across the convenience and gas network that will last a lifetime. I’m very fortunate to work with convenience store owners and key accounts across the GTA who I have built solid friendships and partnerships with.
Career highlight?
Building a strong team in the GTA who have been recognized nationally for the impact they have had in driving our business forward and building outstanding partnerships across the industry.
What excites you most about the future of this channel?
This channel continues to evolve year over year. We are seeing things being done that have never been done before. We are collaborating more than ever and leveraging technology to go further and faster every day.
How do you define yourself as a leader?
My role is empowering my team by removing roadblocks, providing necessary resources and mentoring them to achieve their personal and professional goals. I’m a firm believer that when I focus on the growth and psychological safety of my people, they will in turn consistently deliver exceptional results.
Nomination highlights
Mariam Aly is a true champion of the convenience industry in the Greater Toronto Area, recognized for her leadership, community involvement and unwavering commitment to supporting those around her. With three nominations and as an area or district commercial sales manager with RBH for the past five years, she has earned a reputation as a dynamic, people-first leader who consistently drives strong commercial performance while empowering her teams to succeed. Aly leads high-performing retail operations across the GTA, coaching associates, supporting product education initiatives and helping teams navigate evolving regulations and emerging smokeless products with professionalism and confidence. Beyond operational excellence, she is celebrated as a connector within the convenience sector, building meaningful relationships with major retailers, independent operators and industry stakeholders. Her influence also extends beyond business through volunteer leadership roles that support women in corporate environments and advocate for Black, Latino and Indigenous communities across Canada. A passionate supporter of local initiatives, including tree-planting events and the Ontario Korean Businessmen’s Association, she continues to elevate both the convenience industry and her broader community through leadership, energy and dedication.
Click here for a full list of the 2026 Star Women in Convenience winners
Be there when the industry comes together in-person to celebrate at the Star Women in Convenience Awards Event.