The ringmaster
Mount Royal University business alumnus Haider Ali has always been known as a meticulous planner, someone who carefully maps out every detail before taking a step. But, in a twist of fate, Ali’s big break didn’t come from careful strategy — it literally fell into his hands.
A simple ring, given to him during the pandemic, sparked a flash of inspiration that would evolve into Sigma Rings — a successful e-commerce venture that funded his education and proved that, even in the crowded jewelry market, there’s always room for a niche idea.
As a Mount Royal student juggling a double major in finance and supply chain management through the Bissett School of Business, Ali already knew the hustle before Sigma Rings.
He’d tried his hand at three different e-commerce businesses, each one ending in valuable experience rather than lucrative returns. But the fourth time, as they say, was the charm.
"I realized there was a gap in the market for men’s rings — no one seemed to know where to find them at a reasonable price," Ali says.
And, with that, Sigma Rings was born, offering stylish and affordable rings to men across Canada and beyond.
AIi’s journey wasn’t just about filling a niche; it was about mastering every aspect of the business. From sleepless nights spent designing his website to carefully curating suppliers who could deliver quality at a reasonable price, he was all in.
“I wanted to learn everything,” Ali says, a hint of pride in his voice. “Honestly, I didn’t trust anyone else to do it the way I envisioned.”
Ali’s hands-on approach paid off.
Within six months, Sigma Rings was not just surviving but thriving. The business took off, giving Ali a six-figure income and the ability to focus on his studies.
“It gave me the flexibility to really engage in my education,” he says, adding that the smaller class sizes and personal connections with professors at Mount Royal made all the difference.
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Despite the success of Sigma Rings, Ali remains humble about his achievements. He’s quick to point out the satisfaction he gets from reading customer reviews, knowing that his products are part of someone else’s special moment.
Others are less bashful about his success.
"Seeing Haider apply his entrepreneurial drive to create a successful business has been very rewarding," says Dr. Allan Dwyer, PhD, who taught Ali. "He was always a student who looked beyond the textbook, eager to turn ideas into action.
“It’s no surprise that his business is thriving, and I’m confident he’ll continue to achieve great things."
Ali’s experience is emblematic of the broader value of an education at Mount Royal University. Through its strategic plan, Vision 2030: Opening Minds and Changing Lives, MRU focuses on offering students enriching learning opportunities that help them discover and cultivate the knowledge and skills they need to succeed and make a lasting impact on today’s changing world.
"At Mount Royal University, we emphasize real-world applications, critical thinking and the development of entrepreneurial skills," says Dr. Rajbir Bhatti, PhD, chair of international business and supply chain management. "Haider is a prime example of how our approach empowers students to take initiative and turn their ideas into successful ventures.
“By combining academic rigour with practical experience, we ensure our graduates are well-equipped to thrive in the dynamic world of business."
Looking ahead, Ali has plenty of other business ideas up his sleeve, though he’s not rushing into anything just yet.
For him, the journey from MRU student to successful entrepreneur wasn’t just about making money. It was about learning, growing and finding his own path in a world where opportunities are there for those who dare to seize them.
“At the end of the day, it’s all about persistence,” Ali says. “I had a few failures before Sigma Rings, but each one taught me something valuable. That’s the mindset I’ve taken from my MRU days and applied to every challenge I face.”
The Bissett School of Business’s programs prepare students to join the modern workforce. Students learn the latest industry trends and gain first-hand experience in those industries.