You may have heard Tara Croker’s name before. Not only did she feature on Channel 10’s entrepreneurs show Shark Tank, but she was also a finalist at the 2023 Women’s Agenda Leadership Awards for the Entrepreneur of the Year award.

Croker, a proud Wiradjuri woman, began her business Yaala Sparkling as a way to showcase the natural native flavours and ingredients of her ancestors, the traditional custodians of Australia.

In Croker’s native language, ‘Yaala’ means ‘the present moment’, which drives her passion for sharing the ancient culture and history of the land with modern Australia.

To mark Global Entrepreneurs Week, a week dedicated to recognising those who are paving the way for a better future with innovative business ideas, our friends at Women’s Agenda are sharing a number of Q&As with women building businesses.

Here is Tara Croker’s story.

Tara Croker was a finalist for the 2023 Women’s Agenda Entrepreneur of the Year award. Source: Supplied

Can you give us a brief description of your business?

Yaala Sparkling is an Indigenous-owned business devoted to making luxurious non-alcoholic drinks that honour the true flavours our Ancestors have enjoyed for generations. We believe in sustainable growth, from the plants we use to our business practice. We work with Indigenous wild harvesters and local farmers to create healthy beverages with benefits. We create modern sparkling waters that are both delicious and refreshing. Our products are made with all-natural ingredients, including native Australian botanicals, fruits, and plants. They’re sugar-free, low calories, vegan, gluten-free, and have no artificial colours or preservatives.

What inspired you to start Yaala Sparkling?

I’m a proud Wiradjuri yinaa (woman) and in my language ‘yaala’ means ‘the present moment’. I created Yaala Sparkling to respectfully share and bring to life the ancient flavours of our land in a modern drink for everyone to enjoy and connect over.

When I started to notice an increase in non-Indigenous businesses using traditional plant knowledge in their products, I then discovered Indigenous representation in the native food supply chain is less than 2%, and economic benefits weren’t returning to the community. The fire in me was lit to turn the tables and show up in this space. Blak businesses start with a collective, sustainable and community-driven approach. This is more than a drink – it represents participation, equity and self-determination.

What are some challenges you have faced, and how have you overcome them?

One challenge I faced was entering a new industry and wanting to build the business in the right way. I needed to surround myself with people who were passionate about our mission and who had the skills and experience to help our business grow. I overcame this by networking with other entrepreneurs, and by reaching out to people who had worked on similar projects who have been so willing to share their knowledge.

Do you have a vision for the future of your business?

After launching Yaala Sparkling in early 2023, we have already seen significant growth. I am proud of what we have accomplished at Yaala Sparkling in such a short period of time. We have created a successful business that is making a positive impact on the environment and the community. We hope to preserve Indigenous culture and knowledge. I hope our beautiful and delicious drinks are a vessel to begin a conversation for a more connected Australia in the future.

Do you have any advice for aspiring female entrepreneurs?

One of the most important lessons I have learned from my experience is that it is important to be resilient, tenacious and patient. There will be setbacks along the way, but keep going and do not give up.

This article was first published by Women’s Agenda.