About Yaye – A Journey Founded on Tradition
Welcome to Yaye, a 100% Aboriginal-owned, Australian-made brand founded in Mparntwe (Alice Springs), the heart of Central Australia. Our story began in April 2020, during the challenging days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when passionate teacher Melissa Cole sought an antibacterial hand wash that was gentle on the skin.
Drawing from the ancient wisdom of bush medicine and inspired by learning country lessons, Melissa discovered the healing and antiseptic qualities of native Central Australian plants. With this knowledge, Yaye founded a brand celebrating Indigenous heritage, sustainability, and the transformative power of nature.
✨ Discover Melissa’s inspiring story and the origins of Yaye in our Founder Story video: Watch here.
A Commitment to Community and Collaboration
Yaye is dedicated to uplifting First Nations communities and proudly partners with Yipirinya School, a two-way bilingual school in Alice Springs. This partnership helps support culturally relevant education that bridges traditional Indigenous knowledge with contemporary learning practices, creating meaningful opportunities for the next generation.
In addition to community partnerships, Yaye works closely with other Aboriginal-owned businesses, such as Native Bird Media, to grow the First Nations economy. Yaye actively contributes to economic empowerment, visibility, and shared success within the First Nations business ecosystem by collaborating with fellow Indigenous enterprises.
What Does “Yaye” Mean?
"Yaye" means Big Sister in Arrernte, symbolising connection, guidance, and care—a reflection of the love and support Yaye brings to your skin and self-care journey.
What Makes Yaye Unique?
🌿 Proudly Aboriginal-Owned and Australian-Made
As a 100% Indigenous-owned brand, Yaye is committed to preserving First Nations traditions while modernising bush medicine.
🌿 The Power of Bush Medicine
Yaye products are infused with native Australian plant extracts like Berrigan (Sweet Emu Bush), White Cypress Pine, and Silky Lemongrass—each renowned for its soothing, healing, and antibacterial properties.
🌿 Sustainable and Eco-Friendly
At Yaye, sustainability is central. To minimise our environmental footprint, we use biodegradable ingredients, eco-conscious packaging, and continuous innovation.
Explore Yaye’s Signature Ranges
Inspired by the vibrant landscapes, scents, and textures of Central Australia, Yaye offers products designed to elevate your self-care rituals:
- Body Wash & Hand Wash: Gently cleanse while nourishing and hydrating your skin.
- Body Scrub: Exfoliate to reveal smooth, glowing skin.
- Body Butter: Deeply hydrate, repair, and protect against dryness.
- Bubble Bath: Indulge in a luxurious soak that calms and rejuvenates.
With Yaye, every bath or skincare moment celebrates connection, nature, and self-love.
Why Choose Yaye for Your Skin?
✨ Gentle on Skin: Our products are formulated to cleanse, nourish, and protect sensitive skin types.
✨ Eco-Friendly: Yaye prioritises biodegradable ingredients and sustainable packaging to care for the planet.
✨ Rich in Culture: Each product shares the ancient wisdom of bush medicine, connecting you to Indigenous heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does “Yaye” mean?
"Yaye" means Big Sister in Arrernte, symbolising connection, guidance, and care.
2. Are Yaye products vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes! All Yaye products are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and made with ethically sourced ingredients.
3. What makes Yaye’s products stand out?
Yaye combines ancient bush medicine with modern skincare science to deliver practical, sustainable, and culturally rich products.
4. What ingredients do Yaye products use?
Our products feature natural extracts like Berrigan (Sweet Emu Bush), White Cypress Pine, and Silky Lemongrass for their healing and hydrating properties.
5. Are Yaye products suitable for sensitive skin?
Absolutely! Yaye products are formulated to be gentle and nourishing, perfect for all skin types.
6. Can I use Yaye products daily?
Our products are designed for daily use, ensuring your skin stays hydrated, protected, and radiant daily.
7. How eco-friendly are Yaye’s products?
We use biodegradable ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, constantly innovating to reduce our environmental impact.
8. Where are Yaye’s ingredients sourced?
We source our native plant extracts from Central Australia, supporting Indigenous communities and honouring traditional knowledge.
9. Can Yaye’s products help with dry skin?
Yes! Products like our Body Butter and Body Scrub are designed to hydrate, repair, and revitalise even the driest skin.
10. Where can I buy Yaye products?
Shop Yaye’s full range on our official website for delivery across Australia.
Embrace the Yaye Difference
From its foundation in Aboriginal culture to its eco-conscious mission, Yaye redefines skincare by blending ancient traditions with modern innovations. Whether you're indulging in our deeply hydrating Body Butter, rejuvenating with our Body Scrub, or relaxing with our Bubble Bath, Yaye offers a luxurious experience like no other.
💡 Ready to transform your skincare routine? Explore Yaye’s range and discover the healing power of bush medicine today.
✨ Watch Yaye’s inspiring founder story here: Melissa Cole's Journey.
✨ Shop the Yaye collection now: Explore Here.
Reconnect with nature, honour tradition, and celebrate your skin with Yaye.
