Meet the Baynyi Team
Gema Simon
CEO & Director
Gema Simon is a proud Gumbaynggirr woman born in Armidale (Anaiwan country) and grew up in Newcastle on Awabakal land.
Gema is an 11-time capped Matilda (Australian Women’s National football team) and has represented Australia at the 2019 World Cup in France. Throughout Gema’s professional football career, she has played 14 seasons with the Newcastle Jets (seven as Captain) and 2 seasons with Melbourne Victory. Gema has played 151 games in the A-League Women’s competition and is the only player to have played in all 16 Seasons since the league began in 2008, before retiring at the completion of the 2023-24 season.
Gema also spent time abroad playing professionally in Canada, Norway, Korea and Iceland while also making appearances in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Away from the pitch, Gema has long had a passion for football pathways and education, particularly among Indigenous communities. This passion was not only developed throughout her playing career but also during her time working in Primary schools as an Aboriginal Student Liaison Officer, School Learning and Support Officer, Active After School Care Instructor and a Football Development Officer. Gema has worked on several projects supporting and inspiring the next generation of Indigenous talent.
As owner and CEO of the Baynyi Group, Gema is now dedicating the next phase of her professional life to providing the best opportunities and pathways to the next generation of Indigenous talent to forge their own path to success.
Through lived experiences, Gema understands the positive impact that a safe and supportive environment can play in breaking down barriers and allowing individuals the space to grow and succeed. Gema has embraced the mindset that regardless of your situation, with the right guidance and values there is a place for everyone to reach their full potential.
Gema is excited to pass on her knowledge, experiences and connection to Country through The Baynyi Group.
James Blair
Advisor
James has 20+ years of Executive Senior Management experience across several industries including Health, Finance and Construction. James has worked for ASX listed organisations and in the not-for-profit sector holding responsibility for critical corporate functions including commercial and contract negotiation, national retail distribution and B2B sales.
Over the past several years, James has built two highly successful businesses by providing customers with fit for purpose and value for money solutions. James has built a reputation for delivering mutually beneficial outcomes for his clients and the organisation that he works for.
Scott van Epen
Advisor
Scott has successfully owned and operated several businesses that procure and manufacture goods domestically and internationally for major industries including Health, Mining and Defence.
As a business owner, Scott has an acute awareness and appreciation of the importance of partnering with organisations that deliver on their promise.
Prior to being a business owner, Scott carved out a successful Executive career in Strategy and Human Resources.