Seeing how diabetes and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) affect families in Samoa, Tertia Ryan decided to return people to the basics of healthy, affordable home cooking. 

Speaking with ABC radio Australia, Tertia stated that in 2023, she and a group of women published Heal the Samoan Way, a cookbook featuring simple, plant-based recipes using local ingredients like moringa, soursop, bananas, and pawpaw.

The idea grew from her own health journey, transitioning to a plant-based diet and experimenting with recipes over the years.

She wanted a local, practical tool for families in Samoa and the Pacific to prevent and maybe even reverse the effects of NCDs. The project was supported by the 10,000 Toes Campaign in Australia, which promotes healthier living across the Pacific.

The cookbook encourages a return to traditional diets with fresh fish and root crops, rather than modern fatty and processed foods. 

Tertia highlighted that change begins in the family, especially with mothers. 

“It all starts in the family. Mothers are the change agents, shaping what is prepared for children, husbands, and extended families.”

“Mindful choices in cooking can help families appreciate healthier options and prevent diet-related illnesses,” she said.

Tertia says that growing and cooking local foods supports both health and family connection while saving money.