A delegation from the Pacific Center in Human Security (PCHS) at the American Samoa Community College (ASCC) recently attended the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) 2025 Conference in Louisville, Kentucky. The team included three students majoring in inclusive-Emergency Management program, Ninna Balauro, Jazell Harmon, and Taimane Peko, along with PCHS staff Rosalee Shoulders, Project Director and Katrina Helsham, Communications Manager. The inclusive-Emergency Management degree program is funded by the Administration for Native Americans (ANA), which also supported the students’ travel and participation in the IAEM Conference.

          The conference brought together emergency management professionals from around the globe, providing the ASCC delegation with valuable exposure to emerging trends, inclusive practices, and global best-in-class preparedness strategies. The team also had the honor of meeting IAEM President Carrie Speranza and Region 9 President Jon Shears, further strengthening connections with national leaders in the field.

               “This opportunity allows our students and staff to expand their knowledge and bring home strategies that will directly support American Samoa’s preparedness efforts, especially for our most vulnerable communities,” said Tafaimamao Tua-Tupuola, PCHS State Director. “We are proud of their commitment to advancing inclusive emergency management for our territory.”

               The conference strongly emphasized inclusivity, featuring sessions such as “Developing an Inter-Cultural Communications Playbook” and “Inclusive Leadership in Emergency Management.” These topics resonated deeply with the ASCC delegation as PCHS continues to build local capacity to support individuals with disabilities, the aging community, and other vulnerable population groups.

               “Attending the IAEM Conference was truly eye-opening,” said Ninna Balauro, who is majoring in inclusive-Emergency Management at ASCC as part of her career pathway in the field. “I gained insight into the many diverse fields within Emergency Management and had the chance to engage in meaningful conversations with experts from around the world. The networking opportunities were great, and building these connections will play a huge role in shaping my development and confidence as I grow in this career.”

             For all three students, this was a transformative learning experience. In addition to conference sessions, they also participated in free pre- and post-conference trainings, maximizing their exposure to hands-on learning and credential-building opportunities. These trainings further equipped them with valuable tools that support the PCHS mission of strengthening inclusive emergency management at home in American Samoa.

               The Pacific Center in Human Security expresses its gratitude to IAEM organizers, presenters, and partners who support the advancement of inclusive preparedness and disaster resilience. PCHS remains committed to empowering the next generation of emergency management professionals in American Samoa with its inclusive-Emergency Management degree program, scholarship and training opportunities. For more information about PCHS and the program, visit the Center’s webpage at pchs.amsamoa.edu.