# Mixed Methods Evaluation of “Cooking Monsters”: An Empowerment-Focussed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Adolescent Nutrition Programme

## TL;DR

This study evaluated a nutrition program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adolescents, finding it was valued by the community despite no significant quantitative changes in health outcomes.

## Contribution

The study contributes a community-driven, culturally appropriate approach to adolescent nutrition programs in Indigenous communities.

## Key findings

- No significant changes in weight-related or nutrition behavior outcomes were observed.
- Qualitative feedback showed high community value and perceived improvements in food literacy and confidence.
- End-users identified areas for improvement in future program delivery.

## Abstract

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Sector are well placed to address health equity concerns, including the disproportionate rates of obesity in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adolescents. Building on previous research, this study piloted a co-designed empowerment-focussed obesity prevention programme with rural Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adolescents.

Using mixed-methods, this research assessed nutrition and weight-related outcomes and explored programme acceptability and potential benefits through qualitative yarning. Seventeen adolescents participated.

There were no significant changes in quantitative weight-related and nutrition behaviour outcomes. However, qualitative insights suggest the programme was highly valued and viewed as a success. Community believed they could see observable changes in adolescent food literacy, empowerment and cooking confidence. Improvements for future delivery of the programme were identified by end-users.

This study is strengthened by implementing critical success factors for obesity prevention programmes and demonstrating ethical research practice with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Future research opportunities continue to be actively explored by local community-controlled partners.