Even if you’ve been in the Bow Valley for decades, it’s impossible to grow disenchanted. Everywhere you turn, visitors and new residents are marvelling at the beauty of this place that we are fortunate enough to call home. It’s a pretty special place, after all. People come from around the world to visit the Bow Valley or to plant roots here long-term. We’re highlighting folks who have travelled from near and far to land here, and today we’re speaking with Cornelia Ressavo.
Cornelia Ressavo is the Assistant Manager of Chez Francois. While she actually comes from a background in the sciences, specifically chemistry, she is loving this new experience in the food and beverage industry. “I arrived in the Bow Valley in May of 2022, which is when I started my job,” Cornelia told us. Originally from Gabon, Cornelia lived in France for 16 years before making the decision to move to Canada.
“When I first left France, I came to Calgary, where my aunty was. Then I got sponsorship from Jean Francois and Sylvie. They gave me the opportunity for me and my daughter to live my Canadian dream,” she shared.
Cornelia told us that she loves Canmore. “I feel safe, the lifestyle is great, and I think it’s the best place to raise children.” She explained that her daughter is 11 and attends Lawrence Grassi Middle School. The two love to hike in the summer and ice skate in the winter.
Cornelia explained that she loves Canmore, the opportunities that the Bow Valley has to offer for herself and her daughter, and she loves her job at Chez Francois. She came to Canmore from Calgary, where she was staying, to have her interview with Chez Francois’s owners, Jean Francois and Sylvie. She immediately knew that Canmore was the place she wanted to call home. “I’m so grateful for Jean Francois and Sylvie because they gave me this opportunity, not only for me but for my daughter.”
Currently on a two-year visa, sponsored by her workplace, Cornelia is confident about the immigration process ahead and looks forward to calling Canmore home forever.
This story was made possible by our Community Partners Program. Thank you Foothills Immigration Inc. for helping to expand local news coverage in the Bow Valley. Learn more.
