A healthier, secure, and self-sustainable Pacific top the priority list for Young Pacific Leaders alumnus Lawrence Jay Alcairo of Guam.
By Michelle Curran
Strategic Communications, Pasifika TV
When it comes to priorities, a healthier, secure, and self-sustainable Pacific top the list for Young Pacific Leaders (YPL) alumnus Lawrence Jay Alcairo of Guam.
The Assistant Chief Public Health Officer at the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services is getting ready to take part in this year’s YPL Alumni Roadshow to the United States, along with 11 other YPL from the region.
From September 13-30, 2025, the YPL cohort will visit New York City, Washington DC, Salt Lake City, and Los Angeles to connect with existing and potential US stakeholders, to expand its network and create opportunities for US stakeholders in the Pacific region.
Leading up to the Roadshow, Lawrence and his peers are looking at collaboration, advocacy, and raising awareness of the Pacific region in a virtual leadership program.
Lawrence first became involved with the US Government’s signature initiative to strengthen leadership and networking in the Pacific, at the 2022 Young Pacific Leaders TechCamp in Auckland, which focused on using advanced technology such as artificial intelligence for disaster management, maritime security, and agriculture.
With an interest in public health, specifically at the intersection of youth engagement and emergency management, Lawrence says YPL helped him understand the benefits of collaboration and regional efforts when it comes to disaster response.
“YPL has given me a network of like-minded individuals who are passionate about creating change in their communities,” Lawrence says.
“It’s empowering to be part of a community that shares common goals and supports each other’s efforts.”
He is looking forward to meeting with high-level government officials and community advocates during the Roadshow, he adds.
“These conversations are critical to building bridges between the Pacific and broader US policy circles.
“I hope to advocate for greater Pacific voice and inclusion in policies that not only affect our islands directly but also shape US engagement in the region.
“The Pacific must be seen as a partner—not just a stakeholder—in the decision-making that impacts our future.”
By working in his current role, and joining initiatives such as YPL, Lawrence is doing his part to see his vision of a healthier Pacific come to fruition, while positively impacting his island nation community.
“I want to see a healthier Pacific…before our islands were self-sustaining, thriving off the land and sea.
“While global trade is a permanent part of our reality, I envision a more resilient Pacific—one that can rely on its own resources, especially in times of disaster, rising shipping costs, and growing logistical uncertainties.
“The Pacific holds some of the world’s richest natural and cultural resources.
“We have so much to offer, and I welcome anyone who shares the vision of a healthier, more sustainable Pacific to join us in this work.”
Visit the Young Pacific Leaders website for more details on the US Department of State initiative.
