Our story

Gimiyala began from humble roots in 2021 on the traditional lands of the Yolŋu people in North East Arnhem Land, Australia—one of the most remote Indigenous communities in the country. It is there that Maeve and her husband Lorenzo have lived for four years, learning and working alongside Gumatj Elder, Ms Djapirri Mununggirritj. Together, they shared a vision: to bring ancient and ancestral remedies to life in a way that speaks to the modern world.

From the very beginning, Gimiyala’s purpose has been about more than creating beautiful products. It’s about honouring and sharing rich ancestral knowledge—educating others on the power and importance of native and ancient remedies. What started as a small idea has grown into a meaningful movement. Today, Gimiyala provides income opportunities for Indigenous Wisdom Keepers, and supports local communities through product donations and educational workshops. Gimiyala is, at its heart, a way to keep ancestral fire and knowledge burning bright for generations to come.

Visit Gimiyala Australia Store

Founder Maeve with Elder Djapirri Mununggirritj and family in Australia

In 2025, Gimiyala found a second home on the island of Ireland. A land rich in ancient remedies, folklore, and tradition—and the birthplace and ancestral home for Maeve—it felt only natural to return with the same spirit that began in Arnhem Land. The remedies first crafted for the Indigenous community in Australia now continue their journey across the seas, reconnecting with the healing heritage of Ireland.

It is Maeve’s dream to keep ancient traditions alive, protected within their homelands, carried with pride by their people, and passed forward with strength to the generations to come.

Gimiyala envisions a world where ancient cultures connect once again, weaving bonds of shared wisdom across continents. Our calling is to grow a sustainable business that financially supports Wisdom Keepers, uplifts local communities, and offers meaningful work to all who walk this path.

We hope to awaken curiosity in all who feel drawn to these timeless practices and to share our carefully crafted, deeply rooted botanical products with the world.

Meet our founder

Maeve Colombo

Studied in health, nutrition and botany, Maeve has always had a passion for plants and their supportive qualities.

Irish born and emigrating to Australia in 2007, Maeve has had the profound honour to live and learn alongside the longest living culture in the world in some of the remote places in the country for many years.

With Maeve's understanding of her own ancient culture, together with her lived experiences, she believes the world can greatly benefit from ancient, ancestral and Indigenous wisdom. Gimiyala is her way of helping to connect ancient cultures and create a cross-collaboration and learning pathway so we can grow strong and healthy together.

Grá mór