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(Golloria, 2024) Recent Tiktok (popular social media platform) uploaded by Golloria; a refugee from South Sudan showing the world one of her favourite dishes she eats from her culture  

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Asida: A dough like dish made from wheat flour served with Mula Kuhrda: A type of stew made primarily with dried okra powder as the main thickening agent. The dish typically includes meat, such as lamb or beef, and is flavoured with onions, garlic, and a variety of spices like cumin and coriander. (Mul Kudra, n.d.). The rich flavors and textures highlight the importance of culinary heritage. (Travel Food Atlas, n.d.). I felt a warmth seeing traditional foods like Asida and Mula Kuhrda being shared as it encourages cultural exchange and understanding. I hope there is a continuation to share these heartly dishes to promote cultural appreciation.

Mul Kudra. (n.d.). Taste of South Sudan. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://tasteofsouthsudan.com/recipes/recipes-2/

Travel Food Atlas. (n.d.). South Sudanese food. Travel Food Atlas. https://travelfoodatlas.com/south-sudanese-food

Golloria. (2024, August 14). A taste of home [Video]. TikTok. https://vm.tiktok/ZGe3rgrxp/

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(Digital Promise, 2021) Domain 1: Clinical Expert Clinicians understand, and respond to, the individual, cultural and social considerations in the provision of quality and safe care to people from migrant and refugee backgrounds. (1.3) Clinicians recognise ethno-specific variations and health disparities of people from migrant and refugee backgrounds (Migrant & Refugee Women's Health Partnership, 2019). 

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For me, the most relevant aspect of competency Standard 1.3 was understanding the health disparities among migrant and refugee populations in Sudan, where deteriorating conditions have displaced 4 million people due to conflict (UNHCR, 2023). I have deepened my understanding of these issues by researching the severe health challenges faced by these populations. This knowledge has enhanced my ability to provide culturally sensitive care in the workplace. I now better recognise and address the specific needs of patients from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that my care is respectful and empathetic. This approach improves patient outcomes and creates a more inclusive healthcare environment.

Digital Promise. (2021). Culturally responsive teaching. [Image]. https://digitalpromise.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/CultRspnsvTeach-Tile-1.png

Migrant & Refugee Women's Health Partnership. (2019). Culturally responsive clinical practice: Working with people from migrant and refugee backgrounds. Migrant & Refugee Women's Health Partnership.

UNHCR. (2023, August 24). Health conditions worsen as displacement in Sudan conflict exceeds 4 million. UNHCR. https://www.unhcr.org/news/briefing-notes/health-conditions-worsen-displacement-sudan-conflict-exceeds-4-million

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(Ikilass Henry, 2021)This event took place in Jubek Freedom Square in Juba town South Sudan to  celebrate the anniversary of Jubek State. Ikilass Henry (2021). Jubek State, named after Juba and encompassing its metropolitan area, was politically, economically, and culturally significant but was dissolved in 2020, with its territory now part of Central Equatoria State. Joshua Project, n.d.

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These people are deeply engaged in traditional music and dance, which are central to their culture. Their dances, performed primarily in the dry season, feature a variety of styles and songs that cover topics such as history, love, and religion. The "wore" (dancing field) is used for dances, which are not held during the rainy season to avoid disrupting agriculture. Dance provides opportunities for youth to learn important social skills and strengthen community bonds.

The Nyepo dance traditions, inherited from the Bari, include variations that reflect their unique cultural identity. (Joshua Project, n.d.)

Joshua Project. (n.d.). Bari of South Sudan. Joshua Project. https://joshuaproject.net/people_groups/print/10808/OD

Ikilass Henry. (2021, September 10). Bari Traditional Dance in South Sudan [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/R0T3k6i_I0g?si=gFEQZlx-tdGAQPlc

The Flags. (n.d.). Uncover the popular dances of South Sudan. The Flags. https://theflags.org/uncover-the-popular-dances-of-south-sudan/

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(World Health Organization, n.d) ''Social determinants of health (SDH) refer to the non-medical factors that impact health outcomes.'' (World Health Organization, 2022). These include the circumstances in which individuals are born, grow up, work, live, and age, as well as the broader forces and systems that shape these conditions. These forces and systems encompass economic policies, development agendas, social norms, policies, and political structures (World Health Organization, 2022)

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WHO Social Determinants- Social Inclusion and Non-Discrimination

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WHO Social Determinants- Social Inclusion and Non-Discrimination

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The WHO's emphasis on social inclusion and non-discrimination significantly benefits Sudanese refugees in Australia by ensuring they receive equitable healthcare and culturally sensitive support. Globally, social determinants like economic stability and education affect health outcomes, often disadvantaging refugees in low-income settings. In Australia, while the healthcare system is comprehensive, refugees still face challenges due to cultural barriers and discrimination. By addressing these issues, Australia promotes integration through language classes, employment support, and anti-discrimination efforts. (Clark, 2024). This approach not only reduces health disparities but also encourages a more inclusive society, enhancing the wellbeing and integration of Sudanese refugees into Australian life.

World Health Organization. (n.d.). Social determinants of health. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/health-topics/social-determinants-of-health#tab=tab_1

WHO / NOOR / Arko Datto. (n.d.). Social determinants of health [Image]. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/health-topics/social-determinants-of-health#tab=tab_1

Clark, R. (2024, August 15). Migrants and refugees can struggle to access healthcare in Australia – this is why. SBS News. https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/migrants-and-refugees-can-struggle-to-access-healthcare-in-australia-this-is-why/vko0lzq1e

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(Amulets (The hijab), 2007) Amulets used in Sudanese spiritual healing practices; protection of individuals from physical harm, malevolent spirits, and negative influences.

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Sudanese Health Beliefs and Traditional Medicines Practiced

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Sudanese Health Beliefs and Traditional Medicines Practiced

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In Sudan, traditional folk medicine, remedies and spiritual practices go back to ancient Nile civilisations; diagnosed by clairvoyants, midwives and herbalists. (Mariod, Elrasheed, and Agab,2023)

Personally, it's fascinating how deeply rooted the practices are in Sudanese culture but concerning how there is reliance on these methods due to limited health care access. Traditional practices are crucial culturally but reveal gaps in modern healthcare access. I feel there's a need for a more inclusive healthcare system that integrates both modern and traditional practices. All while recognising the value of traditional practices while addressing these issues to create a more holistic approach. I am committed to supporting initiatives that improve healthcare access and advocate for integration of traditional practices into modern health systems.

Mariod, A., Elrasheed, H., and Agab, M. (2023). History of traditional medicine practices in Sudan: Review. International Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research, 4. https://doi.org/10.53811/ijtcmr.1200069

Amulets (The hijab). Source: Al Safi, A. (2007). Traditional Sudanese Medicine. Azza publishing house, Khartoum, Sudan. [ Image]

The Global Health Network. (n.d.). Sudan: Traditional Sudanese medicine [PDF]. The Global Health Network. https://media.tghn.org/site_finder/sites/documents/Sudan_-_Traditional_Sudanese_Medicine.pdf

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Amulets (The hijab). Source: Al Safi, A. (2007).  Traditional  Sudanese  Medicine.  Azza publishing house, Khartoum, Sudan.

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(National Geographic, 1949). ''Wrestlers no longer compete naked, covered in ash, or coated in grip-resistant cow butter.'' (Fisher, 2014) Today, the attire of a wrestling champion typically consists of athletic shorts and a sleeveless white T-shirt (Fisher, 2014).

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Sudanese wrestling, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Nuba Mountains. Practised for centuries, it symbolises strength, honour, and community. Wrestlers, often revered in their communities, engage in intense, strategic bouts in sandy arenas, showcasing their physical prowess and mental agility. (TalkAfricana, 2021). The sport attracts large crowds, where spectators cheer passionately, reflecting its significance in Sudanese culture. Beyond the physical challenge, wrestling serves as a rite of passage for many young men, reinforcing social bonds and preserving ancient traditions. The sport remains a vibrant and enduring aspect of Sudanese heritage. (Fisher, 2014)

Fisher, M. (2014, November 28). Nuba wrestlers grapple with their culture in exile. National Geographic. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/141128-nuba-wrestlers-refugee-sudan-culture-tradition-infocus

TalkAfricana. (2021, August 7). Nuba wrestling: A look into Sudan’s Nuba people and their traditional wrestling culture. https://talkafricana.com/nuba-wrestling-a-look-into-sudans-nuba-people-and-their-traditional-wrestling-culture/

Sprankle, J. (1949). Nuba wrestlers in the Nuba Mountains [Photograph]. National Geographic. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/141128-nuba-wrestlers-refugee-sudan-culture-tradition-infocus

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(Time News, 2024) The war in Sudan, starting in April 2023, involves intense conflict between SAF and RSF, causing widespread humanitarian crises. (Al Jazeera, 2024) Between 2014 and 2023, approximately 17,000 Sudanese refugees have resettled in Australia. This number includes individuals who have come through various humanitarian and skilled migration programs. (Refugee Council of Australia, n.d.)

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The Australian Refugee Health Practice Guide helps healthcare professionals provide culturally sensitive care to address refugees' unique health needs. For Sudanese refugees, trauma from conflict, displacement, and harsh camp conditions leads to high levels of mental health issues (Refugee Health Guide, n.d.). Violence and instability in Sudan, combined with overcrowded, unsanitary camps, exacerbate PTSD, anxiety, and depression (UNHCR Australia, n.d.). Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is an evidence-based treatment, culturally inclusive therapy designed for survivors of complex traumas. It integrates traumatic memories into their life story, draws on personal strengths, and supports making sense of experiences and improving relationships (NET Institute, n.d.).

Refugee Health Guide. (n.d.). Home. https://refugeehealthguide.org.au/

Time News. (2024). Image depicting displaced persons [Photograph]. https://time.news/the-un-has-identified-110-million-displaced-people-worldwide/

UNHCR Australia. (n.d.). Support refugees in Australia. https://www.unrefugees.org.au/?utm_code=OAWBNDO0023&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=d9d77348f47119524b071584de75bcf0&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Sparro%20%7C%20AO%20%7C%20B%20%7C%20Brand&utm_term=unhcr%20australia%20refugees&utm_content=Donate%20To%20UNHCR%20%7C%20Broad

NET Institute. (n.d.). What is NET? https://www.net-institute.org/whatisnet

Al Jazeera. (2024, April 11). Why did war break out in Sudan a year ago and where does it currently stand? https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/4/11/why-did-war-break-out-in-sudan-a-year-ago-where-does-it-currently-stand#:~:text=The%20war%20in%20Sudan%20broke%20out%20on%20April,Mohamed%20Hamdan%20%E2%80%9CHemedti%E2%80%9D%20Dagalo%20reached%20a%20tipping%20point.

Refugee Council of Australia. (n.d.). Statistics. Refugee Council of Australia. https://www.refugeecouncil.org.au/statistics/