18 August 2021

Gomeroi Woman Turns Traditional Bush Medicine into Beauty Products

Turning old knowledge into modern products is the essence of Indigenous business, Baagi Milaygiin

Proud Gomeroi woman, Deb Munson has combined her extensive background in the beauty industry with her knowledge of traditional bush medicine to create natural and preservative free beauty products. 

Baagi Milaygin, Gomeroi for ‘Grandmother’s Spirit’, started out as a side hustle for Deb, but quickly became a fulltime business. 

She reached out to Yarpa Indigenous business coach, Shannon Mallison, and got the advice she needed to grow. 

“I spoke to my business coach last year when I decided to take this leap. She was so humble, and it felt like we were friends.”

Munson said, “When COVID hit, I knew it was the sign I needed to take this on full time. I was burnt out from the 9 to 5 life, but I love the freedom I have now. I’m truly passionate about what I do, even when I’m up working at 3am”. 

At the beginning of her business journey, Deb only sold products via word-of-mouth but as Baagi Milaygiin grew, she overcame her fear of social media and technology and used it to her advantage. 

Now she has an online store, an Instagram following of over 3000, and her products were featured on a viral ‘Tik Tok’ video. 

“I’m overwhelmed by the support I’ve received from mob! I’ve got the old people up there pushing me, especially my grandmother,” Munson said. 

From Clay masks to lip balm, Baagi Milaygin provides a therapeutic bush product range that is made from Australian native plant-based ingredients. 

As Baagi Milaygiin continues to grow, Deb has her sight set on taking her business to the next level. 

“I wasn’t always keen on wholesale, but I think it’s the right step for me now”, Munson said. 

“I’m building my business for my grandkids, for their future. I want to build this business smarter”. 

She also hopes moving in this direction will allow her to start offering employment opportunities for the community. 

“This isn’t just about the money, I’m about the wellness my products provide and hopefully moving to provide opportunities for the community to start working with me”.

You can find out more about Baagi Milaygiin by visiting her website at https://baagimilaygiin.com.au