#HOTCS: Cynthia Bernier, Rio de Janeiro

“When I was in China, there was a Canadian company that was about to sign a big contract while our Prime Minister was visiting. But, at the last minute, their Chinese partner said they no longer wanted to sign the agreement. Because of my ability to speak Chinese and my familiarity with the culture, I was able to discuss the situation with the partner in Chinese to understand why they were refusing to sign the agreement. Then together, the two companies and I were able to find an arrangement that worked for everyone, and both parties signed the contract the next day with the Prime Minister, a large contract worth several million dollars. I honestly think that, without the Trade Commissioner Service that day, the agreement would not have been signed.”