LAS VEGAS — WHSmith North America is celebrating a major achievement after three company leaders received prestigious 2026 Catalyst Awards from the Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC). The recognition highlights their leadership, advocacy and commitment to creating opportunities throughout the aviation industry.
AMAC presents the Catalyst Awards each year to individuals and organizations that advance innovation, inclusion and growth across airports and transportation sectors. Consequently, the awards have become some of the most respected honors in the aviation community.
This year, AMAC recognized three WHSmith North America leaders for their contributions to the industry.
The honorees include:
- Alea Rocque — Advocate of the Year
- Roderick McOwan — Hall of Fame
- Star Somilleda — Supplier Leadership Award
Company leaders praised the recipients for their dedication and lasting impact.
“We are incredibly proud to see Alea, Roddy and Star recognized by AMAC for their leadership, dedication and impact,” said Huw Crwys-Williams, Chief Executive Officer of WHSmith North America.
“Each has helped shape a stronger and more inclusive future for our industry through mentorship, advocacy and supplier engagement,” he added.
Alea Rocque earns Advocate of the Year honor
Alea Rocque received the Advocate of the Year Award for her commitment to mentorship and industry advancement.
Throughout her career, she has helped emerging businesses and professionals identify opportunities within airport concessions and travel retail. In addition, she has strengthened relationships across the aviation community.
Her work has opened doors for future leaders while encouraging greater participation throughout the industry. As a result, many professionals have benefited from her guidance and support.
Industry colleagues also praised Rocque for helping entrepreneurs navigate complex airport business environments. Furthermore, her efforts continue to encourage long-term growth and professional development.
Hall of Fame recognition crowns remarkable career
Roderick McOwan received induction into the AMAC Hall of Fame, one of the organization’s highest honors.
The Hall of Fame Award recognizes leaders whose careers have produced lasting contributions to aviation and airport business development.
McOwan’s distinguished career spans more than four decades. During that time, he championed diversity, supplier development and opportunities for small and disadvantaged businesses.
He helped create meaningful pathways for businesses seeking opportunities in airport concessions. His leadership influenced countless professionals throughout the industry.
The Hall of Fame distinction serves as a fitting tribute to a career dedicated to growth, opportunity and service.
Star Somilleda recognized for supplier leadership
Star Somilleda earned the Supplier Leadership Award for her commitment to supplier diversity and partnership development.
She supports nearly 100 joint-venture partners and works to expand opportunities for diverse suppliers across the aviation sector.
Additionally, she has built strong relationships that strengthen business opportunities for partners throughout North America.
Her leadership has helped create a more inclusive supplier network. Meanwhile, her efforts continue to foster collaboration between businesses, airports and concession operators.
Because of that commitment, Somilleda has become a respected leader in supplier engagement and business development.
WHSmith North America expands industry involvement
The awards were presented during the 2026 AMAC Airport Business Conference. The event brings together airport leaders, concessionaires, developers, suppliers and government agencies from across North America.
Beyond the award recognitions, WHSmith North America continued its support of industry development programs.
The company became the first prime concessionaire to serve as the National Sponsor of AMAC’s Runway to Success program. The initiative helps small businesses enter the airport food, beverage and retail marketplace through mentorship and exposure.
Additionally, Devon Ray assumed the role of Chair of the AMAC Catalyst Awards program. She will oversee the nomination process and help ensure fairness, transparency and integrity throughout future award selections.
Together, these accomplishments reflect WHSmith North America’s ongoing commitment to leadership, opportunity and inclusion across the aviation industry.
WHSmith North America
WHSmith operates more than 1,700 travel retail stores in over 30 countries worldwide. The company acquired InMotion in 2018 and Marshall Retail Group in 2019. Today, WHSmith North America operates more than 340 specialty retail stores in airports and resort destinations throughout the United States and Canada.
Website: https://www.whsmithna.com
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