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Cape York health findings in the spotlight
by Kylie O’Brien 8 September 2015
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punipima Health Promotion Officers Priscilla Gibson, Fiona Millard and Andrew Packer will present findings from projects delivered in Cape York communities - Beat It, Photovoice and Indigenous Hip Hop Projects. The theme of the Congress is One Vision, Many Voices and will engage approximately 800 health professionals working in all fields of population health practice and research. Apunipima Health Promotion Team Leader Nina Nichols said health promotion efforts are directed at building the capacity of individuals and families and at enhancing social and environmental factors in communities to support better health outcomes. “This is achieved through strong community engagement processes, good partnerships and community involvement in all stages of planning, delivery and evaluation of
community-based health promotion initiatives,� Ms Nichols said. Ms Gibson will give a presentation on Beat It, an evidence-based exercise and lifestyle modification program. The program was delivered as part of a broader project that aimed to improve the prevention and management of Type 2 diabetes
among residents of Hopevale. The delivery of Beat It enhanced engagement between community members and service providers and the participants responded positively to the program. Beat It has also been delivered in Wujal Wujal and Laura. Ms Millard will present findings about Photovoice, an initiative
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that uses photographs as a tool for social change. Through Photovoice, participants are taught how to use cameras to capture images relating to aspects of their life and circumstances. These images are then shared and discussed. Photovoice was initially identified by the Women’s Group in the remote indigenous community of Pormpuraaw as a way to provide an opportunity to engage, support and communicate their personal and community issues. This approach supported the development of programs that addressed the issues identified. The Photovoice project also enabled strong relationships and encouraged engagement among community women, elders and local organisations. Mr Packer will share findings
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on Indigenous Hip Hop Projects. Apunipima contracted Indigenous Hip Hop Projects (IHHP) to deliver four week-long hip hop projects in Cape York communities. IHHP conducted workshops with young people aged 10-18 to produce hip hop songs and film clips that highlighted health issues
important to their communities. Hip hop programs, and those that promote expression through dance and music, have shown to be effective in promoting social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and increasing self-esteem among young people.