The Formation of Amaik : Strength and Inclusion
(ay-mack)
In the heart of Vietnam along the South China Sea lies the homeland of the Champa people—an Indigenous community known for its rich culture and matriarchal traditions. In the Cham language, Amaik means “mother,” “motherland,” or “matriarchy,” reflecting a society where women are honoured as the heads of households, symbolising strength and resilience.
Tara Newen, a woman of Cham ancestry, grew up deeply influenced by these values. Guided by the wisdom passed through generations of Cham women, she envisioned a business that celebrated matriarchal strength and empowered others to do the same.
That vision became Amaik, a consultancy firm named in honour of the powerful legacy of Cham women. More than a business, Amaik is a movement—advancing diversity, inclusion, gender equality, and sustainability in the corporate world.
Rooted in collaboration, empathy, and empowerment, Tara leads Amaik with the same principles that define her heritage. Through her work, the values of her ancestors continue to inspire and drive positive change today.
Meet the Founder
Tara Newen
Founder and Director
Tara (she/her) is a proud descendant of the Cham people, Indigenous to Vietnam. With over twenty years of experience, she has dedicated her career to working with culturally and linguistically diverse communities, including First Nations groups. Her professional journey spans various welfare agencies and non-profit organizations, such as the Victorian Aboriginal Childcare Agency and the Australian Red Cross.
In 2015, Tara co-founded a First Nations-led national charity aimed at closing the health and literacy gap between First Nations and non-First Nations people. Her passion for addressing gender inequities, rooted in her matriarchal Cham heritage, drives her work.
To combat patriarchal barriers, Tara founded Amaik, a company designed to empower women by providing business tools and enhancing financial capabilities. Her goal is to bridge the gender disparity and create equitable opportunities for women. Tara holds a Master of Business Administration and continues to advocate for gender equity and social justice.
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