19/03/2026
Sydney-Middle East Times Int'l: Isabella (Bella) Zaatini has won the Peter Jowett Award in the retail category during the awards ceremony held as part of the AACS Connect 2026 conference at the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney), attended by leading figures from Australia’s retail and fuel industry.
This achievement reflects Isabella’s outstanding contribution as part of the Metro Petroleum team, highlighted during the AACS Connect 2026 conference. one of the most prominent annual events in Australia’s convenience retail and services sector where her name stood out among the award winners.
The recognition highlights Isabella’s excellence in her role at Metro Petroleum, where she has demonstrated strong leadership in retail management and contributed to improving performance and achieving outstanding results in service and operations.
Bella Zaatini comes from a well-established family background, as the daughter of Joe and Lola Zaatini and the granddaughter of prominent businessman John Dib, reflecting a strong presence in business and community life.
Her parents, Lola and Joe Zaatini, said:
“This day is the result of years of hard work and dedication. We are incredibly proud of Bella and what she has achieved. From a young age, she has always strived for excellence, and this achievement reflects her ambition and determination to succeed.”
Her grandfather, businessman John Dib, stated:
“We are very proud of Bella’s achievement. This success is the result of her hard work, commitment, and perseverance. She represents a great example of Lebanese youth in Australia.”
Her uncle, Elie John Dib, added:
“This award is not only a personal achievement for Bella, but also a source of pride for the family and the Lebanese community, proving that our youth can excel across all sectors.”
The AACS Connect conference is a key platform that brings together hundreds of participants from companies and institutions to explore the latest trends in the convenience and retail sector, while also recognising outstanding achievements across Australia.
This accomplishment adds to the growing list of Lebanese successes in Australia and highlights the strong presence of talented young professionals across various industries.
Isabella is the first youngest participant to win the competition and first time for an independent retailer to win.