Eugene Amor says the Young Pacific Leaders program has laid the foundation for a lasting network of Pacific changemakers.
By Michelle Curran
Strategic Communications, Pasifika TV
For Eugene Amor of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), participating in the Young Pacific Leaders (YPL) program has laid the foundation for a lasting network of Pacific changemakers, who he continues to exchange ideas, insights, and support with.
An experienced public finance and development professional, Eugene’s career spans both national leadership and international policy advisory roles.
Most recently, he completed a two-year assignment in Washington DC, as Advisor to the Executive Director for East Asia and the Pacific at the World Bank Board.
He has previously served in the same capacity at the International Monetary Fund, and in both roles, he has helped shape high-level decisions on development finance and policy, consistently championing the interests of small island states and vulnerable economies.
Eugene took part in the first YPL conference held in American Samoa, engaging with emerging leaders from across the Pacific at a pivotal point in his early public service career.
“The experience was both inspiring and transformative,” Eugene says.
“Being surrounded by passionate peers dedicated to advancing the future of our region reinforced my own commitment to public service and inclusive development.
“The conference offered invaluable lessons on leadership, regional collaboration, and community empowerment—all of which continue to shape my approach to development and governance today.”
A strong believer in people-centered development, Eugene notes that the enduring connections he made through YPL remain a vital resource in addressing the complex challenges facing island communities.
From September 13–30, Eugene will join a 12-member cohort from across the Pacific for the YPL Alumni Roadshow to the United States.
The alumni will engage in multilateral policy discussions to strengthen connections between the US and Pacific countries, contributing to a safer, stronger, and more prosperous region.
Stops on the Roadshow include New York City, Washington DC, Salt Lake City, and Los Angeles, where the cohort will meet with stakeholders to expand networks and create new opportunities for collaboration.
In preparation, the group has been participating in a virtual leadership program focused on collaboration, advocacy, and raising awareness of Pacific issues.
For Eugene, it is an opportunity to explore inclusive development in greater depth with US counterparts, while expanding his already established network.
Eugene holds a master’s degree in public policy and management from the University of Pittsburgh and a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the US Naval Academy.
He is currently pursuing a PhD in International Development at the University of Southern Mississippi.
He has represented FSM on critical governance bodies, including the FSM–US Joint Economic Management Committee, and has served as the Pacific Region’s borrower representative in international development finance negotiations, during the early stage of IDA21 replenishment process.
In 2019, Eugene was appointed as the youngest Cabinet member in the FSM National Government, serving as Secretary of Finance/Minister of Finance from 2019 to 2023.
At the grassroots level, he has mobilized resources to support youth programs addressing underage drinking, strengthen local farmers’ resilience, and protect fragile ecosystems through small-scale community development and environmental projects in his community.
“My lifelong commitment to inclusive development is rooted in my belief that meaningful progress begins with uplifting those in greatest need,” he says.
Visit the Young Pacific Leaders website for more details on the US Department of State initiative.