A trailblazing Indigenous-led beverage company is redefining the impact of consumer choice through native ingredients, cultural storytelling, and sustainable enterprise.

In Australia, an estimated 12,000 social enterprises contribute approximately $21.3 billion to the national economy and provide over 200,000 jobs (Source: Social Enterprise Australia). Among these innovators is Yaala Sparkling — a pioneering female- and Indigenous-owned social impact business on a mission to transform the beverage industry through sustainability, cultural empowerment, and innovation. The company takes pride in honoring Indigenous practices and using native Australian ingredients to create healthy, sugar-free, low-calorie sparkling water.

As a leader in native food innovation, Yaala Sparkling goes beyond producing refreshing beverages. It uses its platform to raise awareness about the cultural significance of native plants. All manufacturing takes place in Australia, supporting local employment by working with Indigenous wild harvesters and farmers, while also partnering with female Indigenous artists. Recognizing the environmental footprint of beverage manufacturing, Yaala Sparkling emphasizes sustainable harvesting practices that contribute to ecological regeneration.

Yaala founder Tara Croker

Founder Tara Croker was inspired to act after noticing that, despite the growing use of native plant knowledge in products by non-Indigenous companies, less than 2% of the Australian native food supply chain was represented by Indigenous businesses. Determined to change this dynamic and spotlight the richness of First Nations culture and heritage, she launched Yaala Sparkling in 2023. A proud Wiradjuri woman, Tara grounds the business in her heritage, using storytelling to share knowledge and highlight the unique attributes of native Australian plants and culture.

Yaala pitch on Shark Tank

In 2023, Tara pitched Yaala Sparkling on Shark Tank, securing a $125,000 investment that enabled the company to launch and begin production. In a short time, Yaala Sparkling has introduced a values-aligned product to the market and become a multi-award-winning brand. For Tara, leading an Indigenous-owned business that is reclaiming native food systems carries profound symbolism — both as a Wiradjuri Yinaa and as an entrepreneur. Her vision has always extended beyond creating an accessible beverage; it is about building a platform for truth-telling, cultural reconnection, and economic self-determination. The business reflects the central role Indigenous communities have played in using native foods and ensures these contributions are neither overlooked nor erased.

Yaala Sparkling goes beyond producing refreshing beverages. It uses its platform to raise awareness about the cultural significance of native plants.

Breaking into a male-dominated beverage industry with established players and entrenched market share has not been without challenges. Tara notes that navigating an industry where Indigenous representation remains below 2% — even as native ingredients gain popularity — requires resilience. Building trust, advocating for ethical sourcing, and protecting cultural IP have all presented hurdles. Yet, Yaala Sparkling’s success demonstrates the growing demand for socially driven businesses whose products deliver both environmental and societal benefits.

Today, Yaala Sparkling products are available in nearly 50 locations across five Australian states. Looking ahead, the company has ambitious plans to expand nationally and scale internationally through partnerships with retailers, venues, and mission-driven enterprises. When asked about her long-term vision, Tara shared: “I want Yaala Sparkling to be a leading brand in the native food and beverage space and become a brand Australians are proud of — one that represents a part of our identity.”

Despite bold growth ambitions, Tara remains committed to sustainability and Indigenous priorities. Expansion will continue to prioritize the needs of Indigenous wild harvesters, artists, and suppliers.

Yaala Sparkling is deeply committed to inspiring women and young Indigenous people to pursue entrepreneurship and increase representation across industries. As an Indigenous Australian woman breaking barriers, Tara hopes her journey motivates other aspiring founders to create their own mission-driven enterprises. She emphasizes the importance of leading with one’s story, community, and values, leveraging cultural knowledge as a strength—and most importantly, to “not wait for permission” to build the solutions they envision. Her story is a powerful reminder that businesses need not sacrifice purpose for profit; with determination and integrity, we can achieve both.