Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Dubale.
Hi Sarah, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started Culture Sweet Tea as a way to blend my Ethiopian heritage with my Southern upbringing. As a second-generation Ethiopian immigrant who grew up in a small town in Georgia, I navigated living in between two worlds—at home, I enjoyed Ethiopian food and jazz music from the 70s, and outside, I embraced the culture of the South, drinking sweet tea and listening to Usher and N’Sync on the radio.
For a long time, I felt like I had to choose between those worlds, even though I never felt fully accepted in either. As I got older, I realized my identity was not contingent on fitting in— it was about blending my cultures and loving what made me unique. Little did I know, this would be the inspiration behind Culture Sweet Tea.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all. There were many moments when the road felt uncertain. Starting Culture Sweet Tea has pushed me far outside my comfort zone—financially, emotionally, and creatively. Having no experience in the beverage industry beyond being a consumer, I had to learn everything from scratch, from sourcing ingredients to navigating licensing requirements to designing labels.
There were times I questioned whether I should do this—whether I should step away from my career as an attorney and start something new. It’s hard building something from the ground up, especially when you’re trying to bring flavors and stories into spaces where they’ve rarely been savored or heard. But those challenges also reminded me why I started—to create something that honors my roots and builds bridges between cultures.
What’s helped me through it all is my “why.” Every message from someone who connects with our story, every small win, every sip that reminds me of home, every hug from my little ones and husband—keeps me grounded. The road hasn’t been smooth, but it’s been deeply meaningful and fulfilling.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Culture Sweet Tea is more than a beverage—it’s a celebration of heritage, flavor, and connection. We craft ready-to-drink beverages inspired by the rich traditions of the African Diaspora and the refreshing comforts of the American South. Each bottle tells a story of migration, honor, and community.
We specialize in authentically brewed sweet teas made with real ingredients and globally-inspired flavors. What sets us apart is our commitment to storytelling and purpose. Every blend reflects a cultural narrative, and every purchase contributes to something larger—supporting charitable initiatives both here and abroad.
I’m most proud that Culture Sweet Tea feels personal. It’s rooted in who I am and where I come from, offering an elevated nostalgia that resonates with people from all backgrounds. The brand invites everyone to celebrate culture in a simple yet beautiful way.
What I want readers to know is that Culture Sweet Tea isn’t just about what’s in the bottle; it’s about creating connections through flavor and impact. We’re building a brand that excites both the palate and the community, one sip and one story at a time.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
Atlanta has a pulse you can feel everywhere—the creativity, the culture, and the people. It’s a city where history meets innovation, and there’s always something new to discover around the corner. As a founder, I’m inspired by the city’s energy, diversity, and warm Southern hospitality.
The least thing I like about the city is definitely the traffic! It can turn even the shortest drive into an unexpected expedition, where you find yourself digging in your bag for a snack and begging Google Maps to find a faster route. But honestly, even with the traffic, I wouldn’t trade the energy and opportunity of Atlanta for anywhere else.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.culturesweettea.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/culturesweettea
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/culturesweettea
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/culture-sweet-tea
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CultureSweetTea
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@culturesweettea
Image Credits
Colurwrk
Out The Frame Photography Co.
