About Us

Jesse Green is a proud Butchulla, Woppaburra, and Gunditjmara man, born and raised in Brisbane. He and his partner Kirrily founded Yilay as an Aboriginal-led business built on strengthening community wealth, cultural knowledge, and self-determination. Their vision is to create genuine opportunities for mob, celebrate culture through storytelling and design, and ensure that economic and creative ownership stays within community.

Jesse has spent his career supporting Indigenous communities through sport, education, and health. As the Indigenous Programs Manager for AFL Queensland, he led engagement and high-performance programs across Queensland and northern NSW. He later worked with the Cape York Leaders Program, helping empower young Indigenous people to become leaders in their communities.

Alongside this, Jesse ran his own personal training business, promoting healthy living across Brisbane. A dedicated athlete himself, representing his club in NEAFL and QAFL, and his Country, State, and Region in touch football, he brings strong community insight and leadership to Yilay. His vision is grounded in empowering mob, strengthening culture, and creating opportunities that support long-term community wellbeing.

Jesse is hopeful that Yilay can assist your organisation, company, group or team with all your apparel, promotional or signage requirements and very appreciative of both the Indigenous and non-Indigenous community support.

Kirrily Phillips

Sales and Operations

Kirrily Phillips is a proud Gumbaynggirr woman from Northern NSW. A mum of three to partner Jesse, she finds her joy in family, community and kicking a soccer ball around whenever she can.

With more than 13 years’ experience as a dental practitioner and clinic supervisor at the University of Queensland Dental School, Kirrily has always been driven by a passion for education, growth, and supporting others to reach their potential.

Yilay has opened a new chapter, strengthening her confidence and broadening her skills across communication, project management, and business operations. She thrives on being part of projects that celebrate creativity, bring people together, and create meaningful community impact.

For Kirrily, Yilay is a platform for empowerment, connection, and cultural pride. She’s proud to contribute to a team that leads with professionalism, heart, and a deep commitment to community.

Salu Mam

Sales & Operations

Salu Mam is a proud Torres Strait Islander woman from St Paul Village Moa Island.

Theo Majid

Sales & Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

Theo is a very proud Torres Strait Islander from Badu and Boigu Island. Theo is from Cairns and strongly connected to community both in Cairns and in the Torres Strait Islands of Badu and Boigu.

As a proud descendant of Badu and Boigu Islands and a Far North Queensland native, he always had a strong connection to his heritage, which has driven his passion to work for a company like Yilay. Growing up in the Far North and visiting the Torres Strait, Theo developed a love for fishing, camping, and all things in between. Sports has also played a significant role in his life, and Theo has been fortunate enough to travel overseas on several occasions, gaining valuable experiences along the way. Theo loves spending time with his beautiful family and prioritising to keep traditions and strong connections to his heritage alive with his son.

 

With nearly a decade of experience in the apparel industry, Theo discovered his passion is being able to showcase Indigenous artworks and creativity through unique and impactful designs. Theo "I aim to expand on my knowledge and learn from the best here at Yilay."

Nathaniel Chapman

Graphics & Marketing

Nathaniel Chapman is a proud Goenpul Yaggera man from Brisbane and North Stradbroke Island. Nathaniel is graphics and marketing at Yilay. 

A proud descendant of the Geonpul and Yagera peoples of Minjerribah (North Stradbrokes Island) and Brisbane (Megandjin), as well as the Wakka Wakka people from Eidsvold. As an artist and graphic designer, his foremost goal is to continually grow and develop his skills. Nathaniel view on learning is a lifelong journey, and that stepping outside his comfort zone is essential for personal growth. Each unique project offers a chance for him to push his boundaries, and experiencing his vision come to life in collaboration with Yilay and other partners is immensely rewarding. Nathaniel has three children his greatest inspiration, and he dedicated to making a positive impact on their lives by teaching them the importance of his strong heritage. 

In Memory of Leah Cummins

Yilay Artist & Graphics Designer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We honour and acknowledge the immense contribution Leah Cummins made to Yilay. Her creativity, cultural knowledge, and gentle guidance shaped many of the designs we proudly share today. We are deeply grateful for the stories, spirit, and warmth she brought into our team. 

Leah was a proud Mayi-Kulan bunya (woman) with strong Kalkadoon connections to Mount Isa and family ties across North Western Queensland. With more than 20 years’ experience as a Geoscientist, she carried a deep understanding of Country, knowledge that flowed beautifully into her artistic work.

Her art told stories of strength, identity, and connection. Leah drew inspiration from her cultural roots, honouring her ancestors and celebrating women, children, and the land. Blending traditional and contemporary styles, she brought her Country to life in every piece she created.

Leah’s legacy will continue through her artwork and the many people she inspired. She remains an important part of Yilay’s story, now and always.