Max Bergh, CEO of AMIGA Montessori, has held a lifelong passion for Indigenous affairs which has deeply influenced her work at the family-owned and operated AMIGA Montessori. Committed to acknowledging and respecting First Nations history, Max recently led a project that not only rejuvenated the company’s uniforms but also reinforced its values and mission.

The story began when staff surveys revealed dissatisfaction with the existing uniforms; staff found them boring, non-breathable, and disliked the all-black design. Recognising an opportunity to address these concerns while honouring its commitment to Indigenous culture, the team at AMIGA Montessori proposed a creative idea: to redesign the uniforms incorporating a unique commissioned piece of Indigenous artwork with input from all AMIGA stakeholders.

Determined to avoid a tokenistic approach, AMIGA envisioned uniforms that would embody its values and make a firm, and lasting commitment to Indigenous affairs. “We wanted to make a bold statement to all who look at us, so they know what we believe in and celebrate.” Max explained. This vision aligned perfectly with AMIGA’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and Child Safe standards.

Merindah-Gunya (Beautiful Spirit), an Indigenous artist, was commissioned to create a unique piece of art to feature on the new uniforms. Feedback was sought from staff, families, and children to ensure the design reflected important themes, colours, and words. The collaborative effort focused on community, development, leadership, love, teachers, bright colours, and family.

The resulting artwork features concentric circles representing the three layers of connection: AMIGA services and educators at the core, followed by family, and the broader community. The arrows symbolise the children’s journey through AMIGA, starting small and growing larger at the end of their time within the centre, symbolising growth and development through love and learning.

Together with Yarn Promo, AMIGA Montessori worked to design practical and comfortable clothing items that the team would be proud to wear. Both educators and the management team will receive multiple blouses, designed to be paired with their own black or white pants or skirts. Additionally, they will receive a warm hoodie to extend the message outdoors. Each piece of clothing includes an acknowledgment of country, ensuring that respect and recognition of First Nations people is a constant presence.

This project has been a deeply collaborative effort, with authentic feedback from all stakeholders shaping the final design. The new uniforms are a powerful testament to AMIGA Montessori’s commitment to Australia’s Indigenous culture, and a meaningful symbol of the organisation’s values.

Max and her Head Office team’s leadership and dedication have transformed a simple uniform update into a celebration of culture and community, leaving a lasting impact on everyone within the organisation.

The uniforms are being launched during NAIDOC Week.

Amiga Montessori educators are thrilled with the finished result!

About the Artist

Merindah-Gunya (Beautiful Spirit in Peek Wurrong language)

My Christian name is Bayley Mifsud and I am a proud Kirrae and Peek Wurrong woman of the Gundjitmara nation in South-West Victoria.

Born on Country, I began doing Aboriginal art at the age of 5, learning from my Elders at the Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre in the Grampians. My family and I would often go there on weekends, where we would immerse ourselves in culture through art, music and dance.

I had a particular interest and talent in art and continued to learn through the guidance and encouragement of my Elders. Creating stories using sacred symbols is something I have always had a strong connection with.