Vinicius, International Development

Coming from Brazil, Vinicius Reis has graduated in International Development. Vinicius works as Public Sector Specialist (ETC) at the World Bank in Maputo, Mozambique. 

What is your role and main responsibilities? 

My role as Public Sector Specialist is to support the operationalization of the Public Revenue, Expenditure, and Fiscal Decentralization Enhancement and Reform Multi-Donor Trust Fund and to enhance the engagement of WBG support for public financial management reforms in the country. I work under the Governance Global Practice unit, whose mandate is to help countries build capable, efficient, open, inclusive and accountable institutions that can support sustainable economic growth, reduce poverty, deliver needed services and earn the confidence of citizens.

How did you secure this role? 

I applied for this position through the World Bank online portal, and it took 9 months between my application and my start date. Before joining the Bank, I worked in Sudan with the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the German Red Cross. However, the work I developed for four years with subnational governments in Brazil prior to my master’s degree, coupled with my international experience, was the key factor that helped me secure this role, as it demonstrated my knowledge and passion for the development sector and, more specifically, the public sector.

What is the most fascinating and/or surprising aspect at your role?

Working for the World Bank has been my long-term dream since I first enrolled in my bachelor’s degree in International Relations in Brazil. What fascinates me the most is being in daily contact with a truly diverse group of highly qualified professionals who work tirelessly on creating innovative projects and solutions to help the people of Mozambique.

>How did your PSIA experience help you with the role? 

Studying at PSIA was definitely a milestone in my life and helped me realize how passionate I am in working with development issues. Beyond the incredible academic environment, Sciences Po gave me the opportunity of meeting highly regarded practitioners and to exchange ideas with like-minded students and prominent scholars, such as the Nobel Prize Winner Joseph Stiglitz. During my time in PSIA, I co-founded the Conférence Pour Le Brésil initiative, which provided the opportunity of discussing the main issues faced in Brazil and other developing countries with important politicians, academics, representatives of international organizations and civil society.

What advice would you give to others? 

My first advice is not to be afraid to pursue your dreams. If you know your professional goals, invest in building the necessary experiences that will help you achieve them, no matter how difficult they may seem.Second, be patient and resilient. It took me a lot of "no’s" to get the one "yes" I needed to be where I am today.Finally, embrace your history: it is what makes you unique and different, and will help you enable your full potential.

• About the World Bank
• About the Master in International Development