In the world of business and community leadership, Amanda Healy stands as a beacon of resilience, innovation, and cultural pride. As a Wonnarua woman from the Hunter Valley in New South Wales, Amanda’s remarkable journey has bridged industries and continents, leaving an indelible impact on Indigenous representation, economic empowerment, and cultural preservation.
With over 35 years of experience in the mining industry, Amanda has forged a path in a traditionally male-dominated field. From working with industry giants like BHP, Rio Tinto, and WMC to founding her own engineering firm, Maxx Engineering, in 2003, Amanda has consistently demonstrated her expertise and leadership. Her efforts culminated in the creation of Warrikal in 2017, an Indigenous-majority-owned mechanical services business that has grown into one of Australia’s most successful enterprises in the resources sector.
At Warrikal, Amanda has worked tirelessly to increase Indigenous workforce participation, setting ambitious targets and creating opportunities for First Nations workers. She acknowledges the challenges in achieving a 20% Indigenous workforce but remains steadfast in her mission to expand representation in the industry.
Championing Culture Through Social Enterprise
Amanda’s vision extends beyond engineering. In 2014, she founded Kirrikin, a social enterprise that celebrates and promotes Indigenous culture through luxury fashion. Kirrikin digitally transforms Aboriginal artwork into vibrant cashmere and silk fabrics, turning them into stunning clothing and accessories. By sharing profits with the artists, Amanda ensures that her enterprise not only amplifies Indigenous voices but also contributes to their financial empowerment.
Kirrikin has garnered international acclaim, featuring in fashion shows across Europe, including London, Paris, and Madrid. Amanda’s passion for cultural preservation led her to study fashion studio skills in Paris under a Churchill Fellowship in 2019, further enhancing the global reach and professionalism of Kirrikin.
Amanda’s leadership style is deeply rooted in relationship-building, respect for traditional owners, and a commitment to creating generational wealth for Indigenous communities. Reflecting on her journey, Amanda acknowledges the challenges she faced as a woman in mining but emphasizes the importance of resilience, innovation, and leading by example.
Her influence extends to her roles on multiple boards, including the Wirrpanda Foundation and the WA Social Enterprise Council, where she continues to advocate for Indigenous representation and social responsibility.
Amanda’s impact is a testament to her belief that Indigenous business leaders deserve a prominent voice in shaping the future. As she puts it, “We need to have a bigger say… and we’re never going to get there unless people start to see us functioning and operating at the highest possible level.”
Through her entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment, Amanda Healy not only paves the way for others but also ensures that Indigenous culture and values remain central to the narrative of success.
