About
Think of me as your personal Thought Partner. What’s that? Someone who helps you gain clarity about the way ahead. Generally this happens during a virtual chat. We can start in the direct messages here, or you can book a 30 or 60 minute chat through my calendar (see link above).
Job Seekers - I share practical strategies, tactics, and skills you may use to discover the next step in your career path.
Entrepreneurs - I share practical strategies, and tactics, to help you achieve your business goals.
On the flip side I share information to help employers create more Inclusive Diverse Equitable Accessible Learning (IDEAL) workplaces.
I believe that each of us has gifts to share with the world, and that when we find a workplace that appreciates us for those gifts, and compensates us with at least a living wage, then we all win.
I believe that it’s OK to be paid well to do the things we love to do and are good at doing. (It took me 5 years as an entrepreneur before I let myself fully embrace this belief.)
I believe that sometimes finding your ideal job means creating your own business, so you can fully leverage your gifts and be paid well while doing so.
I believe that organizations of all sizes can create Inclusive Diverse Equitable Accessible Learning (IDEAL) workplaces, where everyone is valued for their gifts, and teams are made up of people that support and encourage each other, each leveraging their gifts, for the benefit of the team, with everyone earning at least a living wage.
I believe in doing what I can to influence others to help as many people as possible discover their ideal jobs and create their IDEAL workplaces. It underpins everything I do from my business services to volunteering as a mentor with my professional associations.
You already have it within you to achieve your goals. As your Thought Partner, I provide a sounding board, asking questions to make sure I understand what you’re trying to do, which often helps you clarify your goals. I also offer feedback on what you’re doing now, and make suggestions about things you may choose to do differently.
Call to Action:
If you’re interested in learning more about discovering or creating your ideal job, or in creating a more IDEAL workplace, reach out and book a virtual chat. I’d be delighted to explore opportunities with you while sipping a cup of tea.
When we share what we know, and learn from each other, we can all find ways to thrive.
Share · Learn · Thrive
Articles by Chantal
Activity
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If somebody asks what you're looking for, be prepared to tell them a little about what you're looking for; it helps them figure out if they're the…
If somebody asks what you're looking for, be prepared to tell them a little about what you're looking for; it helps them figure out if they're the…
Posted by Chantal Fraser
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Knowing your goals can help you set your networking priorities. #ShareLearnThrive #FriendlyForcesNetwork
Knowing your goals can help you set your networking priorities. #ShareLearnThrive #FriendlyForcesNetwork
Posted by Chantal Fraser
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Your Friendly Forces may not know what your goals are, be prepared to share. It helps if you know what your goals are! #ShareLearnThrive…
Your Friendly Forces may not know what your goals are, be prepared to share. It helps if you know what your goals are! #ShareLearnThrive…
Posted by Chantal Fraser
Experience
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Education
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In-depth study of the Operational Planning Process, which can be used for everything from mapping the path to your ideal career, to changing organizational culture.
Almost everything learned in a military career can be transformed into transferable skills leading to success as an entrepreneur or pursuing a second career. -
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Activities and Societies: Formed lasting friendships with some of my classmates, who gifted me with the book "Women and the Art of War: Sun Tzu's Strategies for Winning Without Confrontation" by Catherine Huang and A.D. Rosenberg. Learned skills and knowledge which help me now as a business and career coach, while helping people discover the path to their ideal careers.
Pursued part time studies, while working full time for a few years.
Witnessed the power of the Prior Learning Assessment Recognition (PLAR) process, by having some of the courses written off because of my work experience.
Completed the last 6 of 20 credits as a "full-time" student while on maternity and parental leave with my youngest child. All three of my children were born while I was completing my MBA.
The course I learned the most in was Supply Chain…Pursued part time studies, while working full time for a few years.
Witnessed the power of the Prior Learning Assessment Recognition (PLAR) process, by having some of the courses written off because of my work experience.
Completed the last 6 of 20 credits as a "full-time" student while on maternity and parental leave with my youngest child. All three of my children were born while I was completing my MBA.
The course I learned the most in was Supply Chain Management.
The courses I enjoyed the most were Leadership (2 credits), Management Information Systems, and Organizational Theory. -
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Activities and Societies: Practiced leadership skills by volunteering to do things like leading groups creating murals to decorate the drill hall for dances. Witnessing how a line drawing projected onto huge pieces of heavy paper, which when painted, transformed the drill hall into a different place, was a preview of how helping people figure out how to transform obstacles into opportunities can help them discover their path to success, on their terms.
After realizing that engineering was not the right course of studies for me (failing out drove that message home), I transferred to Business Administration, where I found my niche.
Favourite courses were psychology, language classes, and anything that helped me better understand people, and what drives them to do the things they do.
Business Administration courses felt like I was coming home, and I had found my people. Best learning experiences, while also the most challenging…After realizing that engineering was not the right course of studies for me (failing out drove that message home), I transferred to Business Administration, where I found my niche.
Favourite courses were psychology, language classes, and anything that helped me better understand people, and what drives them to do the things they do.
Business Administration courses felt like I was coming home, and I had found my people. Best learning experiences, while also the most challenging, were doing projects focused on local organizations. For example learning about how daycares are run, with Amy, Susan and Lee in third year. And the wake-up call to do the work we were capable of, that Craig and I received from our prof in fourth year. -
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I started my post-secondary studies in Engineering, because that's what my father recommended, and that's what the recruiters were looking for,
While I technically had the aptitude, and did well during my CEGEP studies, I failed out of Engineering studies at the Bachelors level. My brain simply doesn't see image and graphs in 3D, and I don't do well memorizing graphs and formulae, which meant that 2nd year engineering physics and math classes were my downfall.
Happily, this meant…I started my post-secondary studies in Engineering, because that's what my father recommended, and that's what the recruiters were looking for,
While I technically had the aptitude, and did well during my CEGEP studies, I failed out of Engineering studies at the Bachelors level. My brain simply doesn't see image and graphs in 3D, and I don't do well memorizing graphs and formulae, which meant that 2nd year engineering physics and math classes were my downfall.
Happily, this meant that I was able to transfer to a program of studies that better suited the way my brain works, and my interests. Ultimately leading the way to a wonderful military career, and being able to create my very own ideal job, as an entrepreneur. -
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Activities and Societies: Tried Track & Field for one year. Made it to the next level of competition by coming in third in the 1500 metre race. At that level, hearing the person behind me really pushing it to pass me, I purposefully slowed down, so I would come in fourth and not progress to the next level. Why? Because getting on the podium for that race didn't mean anything to me, and she obviously wanted to place. It would mean more for her, than it did for me. No regrets!
Most useful class in all of high school - typing! What is now known as keyboarding. I learned how to touch type, which served me well in my military career as an officer, and which serves me now as an entrepreneur.
My high school class choices were largely dictated and influenced by my parents. I'm pretty easy going, so I agreed to focus on math and sciences, while still shoehorning in more than the minimum requirement for languages (English and French).
Played a lot of cards…Most useful class in all of high school - typing! What is now known as keyboarding. I learned how to touch type, which served me well in my military career as an officer, and which serves me now as an entrepreneur.
My high school class choices were largely dictated and influenced by my parents. I'm pretty easy going, so I agreed to focus on math and sciences, while still shoehorning in more than the minimum requirement for languages (English and French).
Played a lot of cards during my lunch breaks, hanging out with a diverse group of friends, from different grades. Many were also in the Air Cadets with me. Others were in my advanced placement classes.
Proud nerd. Now I know I'm Neurodivergent.
I started learning about leadership while a young teenager in the Air Cadets. Most of that time was in High School.
I was the friend people confided in. The one who didn't judge, and appreciated people for who they were, not for who society, their parents or teachers wanted them to be.
Licenses & Certifications
Volunteer Experience
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Board Past Chair (term completed Spring 2020), HRPA Mentor and member of the HRPA Awards Task Force (2021) & Participated in HRPA Strategic Plan Consultation session (2021)
Human Resources Professional Association Quinte and District Chapter
- Present 16 years
The Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) is Canada’s HR thought leader with more than 20,000 members in 26 chapters across Ontario. It connects its membership to an unmatched range of HR information resources, events, professional development and networking opportunities and annually hosts Canada’s largest HR conference.
Became Past Chair in May 2019, Have served as Chair, Membership and Mentorship Director.
Managed the award winning Quinte Chapter Mentoring program which…The Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) is Canada’s HR thought leader with more than 20,000 members in 26 chapters across Ontario. It connects its membership to an unmatched range of HR information resources, events, professional development and networking opportunities and annually hosts Canada’s largest HR conference.
Became Past Chair in May 2019, Have served as Chair, Membership and Mentorship Director.
Managed the award winning Quinte Chapter Mentoring program which was launched using Mentor Scout in January 2013 and transitioned to MentorCity in 2014. This program is now managed by the Ottawa Chapter - giving our members access to a greater variety of Mentors and Mentees. -
Women's Empowerment Principles speaker
The Canadian Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW Canada)
- Present 17 years
The Canadian Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW Canada) develops the professional and leadership potential of women in Canada through education, awareness, advocacy and mentoring within a supportive network.
BPW Canada's goal - The improvement of economic, political, social and employment conditions for women in Canada. Bottom line, we work to educate and empower women in Canada.
BPW Canada has taken up the challenge to advance and empower women in the workplace…The Canadian Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW Canada) develops the professional and leadership potential of women in Canada through education, awareness, advocacy and mentoring within a supportive network.
BPW Canada's goal - The improvement of economic, political, social and employment conditions for women in Canada. Bottom line, we work to educate and empower women in Canada.
BPW Canada has taken up the challenge to advance and empower women in the workplace, marketplace and civil society. We invite all stakeholders to participate in the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) National Project and to demonstrate their commitment to gender equality in Canada. -
Advisory Team - Human Resources Toolkit development
East Central Ontario Training Board (ECOTB)
- 1 year
Our prime focus is on local labour force development. ECOTB conducts research, data collection, consultation, analysis and reports on the local workforce requirements. Based on our findings, we work with our community partners to develop events, projects, activities and resources that are timely and appropriate to our local needs.
Our projects are varied and so are our community partnerships. We work closely with the local municipalities, economic development offices, employment service…Our prime focus is on local labour force development. ECOTB conducts research, data collection, consultation, analysis and reports on the local workforce requirements. Based on our findings, we work with our community partners to develop events, projects, activities and resources that are timely and appropriate to our local needs.
Our projects are varied and so are our community partnerships. We work closely with the local municipalities, economic development offices, employment service providers, chambers of commerce, employers, business associations, educators, social service and healthcare agencies.
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Regular Member - Editor
Aboriginal Veterans Autochtones
- Present 10 years 10 months
Advocacy – Community Service – Remembrance
Advocate: To advise and provide support for and to all Aboriginal Veterans and their families regarding all issues pertaining to Veteran’s needs & rights. Advocate and provide support to and on behalf of Aboriginal Serving Members.
Community Service: To promote, engage in and provide support to the Community by encouraging contributions to our society and to future generations. Provide the most positive influence to our Aboriginal…Advocacy – Community Service – Remembrance
Advocate: To advise and provide support for and to all Aboriginal Veterans and their families regarding all issues pertaining to Veteran’s needs & rights. Advocate and provide support to and on behalf of Aboriginal Serving Members.
Community Service: To promote, engage in and provide support to the Community by encouraging contributions to our society and to future generations. Provide the most positive influence to our Aboriginal communities and youth by both traditional teachings and strong leadership development through a variety of resources.
Remembrance: To Honour and perpetuate the memories and outstanding deeds of our fallen comrades who gave their lives to preserve the freedom for all. In honouring those who paid the ultimate sacrifice we will act at all times with respect and integrity.
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Storyteller and member
Dumpster Diva Collective
- 1 year 4 months
Environment
Like most of the ideas we live with today, the idea of fashion is shaped by consumer culture - its central concept and the fuel that runs the fashion industry is the belief that last year's wardrobe must be disposed of to make way for this year's. The dumpster Divas reject this belief.
In place of fashion, the Dumpster Divas believe in the "art of dressing". The Dumpster Divas believe that putting together an outfit - choosing clothing and accessories with a sense of style and an eye to…Like most of the ideas we live with today, the idea of fashion is shaped by consumer culture - its central concept and the fuel that runs the fashion industry is the belief that last year's wardrobe must be disposed of to make way for this year's. The dumpster Divas reject this belief.
In place of fashion, the Dumpster Divas believe in the "art of dressing". The Dumpster Divas believe that putting together an outfit - choosing clothing and accessories with a sense of style and an eye to colour shape and design - is as legitimate form of creative expression as painting or music or dance. Fashion is about sameness; the art of dressing is about the uniqueness of self.
The Dumpster DIvas believe foremost in the art of dressing with eco-consciousness - in considering the environment in the choices we make in what to wear. Fashion deals with fads or trends; the need for eco-conscious dressing is not and must not ever be a fad or trend. It is an absolute and permanent fact of life.
Many years of consumer-driven fashion have left us with an over-abundance of dresses and blouses and skirts and jackets and ties and hats and scarves and bags - enough to see us all through the foreseeable future. For this reason, the Dumpster DIvas believe that the fundamental of eco-conscious dressing is to purchase only previously-owned clothing or accessories from vintage, consignment or thrift stores or newly-designed clothing and accessories made by local artisans from recycled materials.
The Dumpster Diva Collective was disbanded in April 2015. -
Member
Aboriginal Women’s Business Entrepreneurship Network
- Present 10 years 9 months
Economic Empowerment
AWBEN provides a safe, supportive, collaborative, empowering and culturally supportive environment that addresses the unique challenges of female Aboriginal entrepreneurs and aspiring female Aboriginal entrepreneurs. To enhance, develop and accelerate growth for current and aspiring female Aboriginal entrepreneurs in a sustainable way through programs and resources. Community leadership through volunteerism will be promoted as a reflection of respect and reciprocity and will be paramount to…
AWBEN provides a safe, supportive, collaborative, empowering and culturally supportive environment that addresses the unique challenges of female Aboriginal entrepreneurs and aspiring female Aboriginal entrepreneurs. To enhance, develop and accelerate growth for current and aspiring female Aboriginal entrepreneurs in a sustainable way through programs and resources. Community leadership through volunteerism will be promoted as a reflection of respect and reciprocity and will be paramount to the foundation of the Aboriginal Women’s Business Entrepreneurship Network.
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Board Member - Treasurer
Gleaners Foodbank (Quinte) Inc.
- 6 years
Poverty Alleviation
I became the Acting Treasurer in November 2015, because I was hoping to help mentor a permanent Treasurer. I finally admitted that the job was mine after a couple of years of "Acting."
The Gleaners mission is to provide food and resources to people who are hungry in the Quinte region.
The vision is for a community that is hungry no more.
After 6 years of service, I decided to move on, and let someone else perform this role. To help bring the new Treasurer up to speed, I…I became the Acting Treasurer in November 2015, because I was hoping to help mentor a permanent Treasurer. I finally admitted that the job was mine after a couple of years of "Acting."
The Gleaners mission is to provide food and resources to people who are hungry in the Quinte region.
The vision is for a community that is hungry no more.
After 6 years of service, I decided to move on, and let someone else perform this role. To help bring the new Treasurer up to speed, I agreed to remain on the Finance Committee until the 2022 AGM. -
Mentor
Loyalist College
- 1 year 11 months
Economic Empowerment
Loyalist College started the Entrepreneurial Studies - Business Launch (ESBL) one year program in the fall of 2015.
I am honoured to have been selected as one of the mentors for the ESBL program. To learn more about ESBL view http://www.loyalistcollege.com/programs-and-courses/full-time-programs/entrepreneurial-studies-business-launch/
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Advisory Board Director
Canadian Federation for Citizenship (CFC)
- Present 8 months
Civil Rights and Social Action
CFC’s Mission to promote citizenship is steered by the principles that: Citizenship is a notable relationship that binds all Canadians, and, that it requires one to be accountable for others.
CFC aspires to be a prominent voice on active, responsible and inclusive citizenship.
I’m honoured to join the CFC Advisory Board. Their mission aligns with my beliefs that each of us has gifts to share with the world, and that when we share what we know, and learn from each other, we can all…CFC’s Mission to promote citizenship is steered by the principles that: Citizenship is a notable relationship that binds all Canadians, and, that it requires one to be accountable for others.
CFC aspires to be a prominent voice on active, responsible and inclusive citizenship.
I’m honoured to join the CFC Advisory Board. Their mission aligns with my beliefs that each of us has gifts to share with the world, and that when we share what we know, and learn from each other, we can all find ways to thrive.
Publications
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The ultimate in confidence: Admitting you don’t have all the answers!
Pumps and Shoes Global
See publicationNo leader has all of the answers.
If you’re confident, you’ll ask others for their input, you’ll consider all the factors and then you’ll make a decision. Once the decision is communicated, your level of confidence will help your team to implement the solution you’ve selected. -
Express Yourself in the Boardroom!
Pumps and Shoes Global
See publicationA short article outlining three areas women can focus on to ensure that they are heard and recognized in the Board Room: non-verbal communication, action language, and being clear, concise and confident when communicating.
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Diversity Recruiting: It’s Time to Tip the Balance
The Canadian Military Journal
See publicationThis article explains why the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) must recruit a workforce that is reflective of today's Canadian population. It recommends tactics that the CAF can use to reach Diversity recruiting goals. While the message is aimed at the CAF, the recommendations are applicable to other organizations.
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Busting the Super Hero Myth
Pink Pumps Global
See publicationA short and entertaining article offering insight on how to achieve work life balance.
Courses
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Command and Management
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Leadership and Ethics
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Mental Health First Aid Standard
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National Security and International Affairs
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War and Society
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Projects
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Aboriginal Women's Economic Quarterly
- Present
The Idea Connector Network launched an online magazine dedicated to celebrating Aboriginal Women’s successes. Chantal Fraser is the Editor in Chief. Aboriginal women are invited to share their stories. We hope these success stories become beacons for other women looking to break-down barriers and attain their goals.
Other creators -
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Eco-Fashion Gallery Exhibit “Lightly Tread in a Big World”
- Present
As the Storyteller for the Dumpster Diva Collective, Chantal wrote the press release and gathered and framed quotes which form a part of the exhibit which takes place from Saturday May 31st to Thursday June 26th, 2014 at the Impresario Artisan Market at 37 King St. W. in downtown Cobourg. Gallery Hours are Tuesday to Saturday 10am-4pm and Sunday 12-4pm.The Eco-Fashion Gallery Exhibit “Lightly Tread in a Big World” provides the Dumpster Diva Collective an opportunity to showcase examples of:…
As the Storyteller for the Dumpster Diva Collective, Chantal wrote the press release and gathered and framed quotes which form a part of the exhibit which takes place from Saturday May 31st to Thursday June 26th, 2014 at the Impresario Artisan Market at 37 King St. W. in downtown Cobourg. Gallery Hours are Tuesday to Saturday 10am-4pm and Sunday 12-4pm.The Eco-Fashion Gallery Exhibit “Lightly Tread in a Big World” provides the Dumpster Diva Collective an opportunity to showcase examples of: locally sourced upcycled and repurposed clothing and accessories; wood carvings created from recycled materials; jewellery created from recycled materials such as copper wire, funky buttons and inner tubes; repurposed hats finding new life as “fascinators” embellished with materials such as feathers, ribbons and buttons; and dog apparel and accessories created from up- cycled and re-purposed materials.
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Aboriginal Women in Leadership: Building the Path to Prosperity
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We know Aboriginal women are leading at all levels; in: families, communities, business, academia and government. When women succeed, through education and employment, the whole community thrives. Women leaders are excellent role models for their children and their communities. However, many Aboriginal women face barriers at the most basic level: poverty, family violence and heading lone parent families are but a few. These challenges stop many women from assuming leadership roles within…
We know Aboriginal women are leading at all levels; in: families, communities, business, academia and government. When women succeed, through education and employment, the whole community thrives. Women leaders are excellent role models for their children and their communities. However, many Aboriginal women face barriers at the most basic level: poverty, family violence and heading lone parent families are but a few. These challenges stop many women from assuming leadership roles within their communities. Join us to hear several Aboriginal women leaders share their knowledge about building a sustainable path to prosperity for themselves, their families and communities.
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Honors & Awards
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HRPA Awards of Distinction - Honourary Life Award
Human Resources Professional Association (HRPA)
In recognition and in sincere appreciation of outstanding service and committment to HRPA and the Human Resources profession.
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Management of Human Resources Award - Employment Equity Category
Department of National Defence
This award recognizes the contribution to the achievement of employment equity in the workplace.
Demonstrating exemplary collaboration between DND civilian employees and members of the CF, the Canadian Defence Academy (CDA) Aboriginal Team furthered DND's Employment Equity goals through research, the development of new Special Measures Aboriginal Programs, and formalizing funding and standards for these programs.
Chantal led the team managing the CDA Aboriginal Team, which included both…This award recognizes the contribution to the achievement of employment equity in the workplace.
Demonstrating exemplary collaboration between DND civilian employees and members of the CF, the Canadian Defence Academy (CDA) Aboriginal Team furthered DND's Employment Equity goals through research, the development of new Special Measures Aboriginal Programs, and formalizing funding and standards for these programs.
Chantal led the team managing the CDA Aboriginal Team, which included both Indigenous and non-Indigenous military officers, non-commissioned members and civilian staff. The team's efforts included securing recurring annual funding for the newest program, the Aboriginal Leadership Opportunity Year held at the Royal Military College of Canada and providing advice to the Navy, Army and Joint Forces training establishments running the 3 programs. Chantal and her team also identified additional training for staff members involved in running the programs, and formalized contracts for people outside of the Department of National Defence, such as Elders and those conducting Indigenous cultural training to the youth participating in the programs. -
The Angel of Hope Award
The Quinte Childrens Foundation
This award was presented to Chantal and her colleague Debbie Miller for their work supporting the Trenton Military Family Resource Youth Programs and Daycare.
Languages
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French
Native or bilingual proficiency
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English
Native or bilingual proficiency
Recommendations received
31 people have recommended Chantal
Join now to viewMore activity by Chantal
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Let your Friendly Forces network know if you are starting to explore your options to become an entrepreneur. #ShareLearnThrive #FriendlyForcesNetwork
Let your Friendly Forces network know if you are starting to explore your options to become an entrepreneur. #ShareLearnThrive #FriendlyForcesNetwork
Posted by Chantal Fraser
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