Berrembi Jarragboo-Boorroo Wajawoorroo Men'Gawoom Gijam (Gija Healthy Skin Story): Two-Way Learning for Healthy Skin

Abstract

Issue Addressed

Remote-living Aboriginal children in Australia contend with higher rates of skin infections than non-Indigenous children. This work was embedded within a stepped-wedge, cluster randomised controlled trial aiming to halve the rate of skin infections in remote Kimberley communities. It outlines and reflects upon the co-development of a health promotion resource in partnership with the East Kimberley community of Warmun, whilst understanding community perceptions of its impact.

Methods

Through a community participatory action research methodology over several years, relationship building and consultation identified there was a community preference for health promotion resources that documented both traditional and Western ways of supporting skin health. Two-way learning was prioritised throughout the development process. Yarning methodology informed evaluation activities, with data analysed thematically.

Results

The resulting resource Berrembi Jarragboo-boorroo Wajawoorroo Men'gawoom Gijam (Gija Healthy Skin Story) was launched in March 2023. To date, over 500 hard copies of this and the subsequent Kriol version—Dijan Wen Wi Tokin Bela Propa Good Wan Skin Gota Gija—have been distributed. Eight Warmun community members and service providers participated in the evaluation yarns with themes specific to the development of the book, an assessment of impact and community-identified strengths.

Conclusion

Berrembi Jarragboo-boorroo Wajawoorroo Men'gawoom Gijam (Gija Healthy Skin Story) exemplifies the elements of co-design emphasized across the Kimberley and Australia; opportunities for two-way learning, preference for community priorities and highlighting culture above all else.

So What?

Health promotion activities completed within remote Aboriginal communities should prioritize two-way understanding, authentic relationships, Aboriginal-led, local language inclusion, equitable resourcing and ongoing evaluation to ensure that the results and outcomes are impactful for the communities involved.