Taking a semester off from school, Chantel moved to New Orleans in 2000 where she connected with several athletes and charity organizations. Offering her assistance in one of the events, her talent and skill set became clear when she was asked to come on full-time to work with the foundation where she would be shouldering a 9-city tour coordinating football camps, hospital visits, and readings to kids. After seeing the expressions on the children’s faces, for Chantel, her calling became clear, “I realized this was something I was supposed to be doing. I felt like I was helping these kids to feel better about themselves and helping them to be better also.” Naturally, she began to conduct her due diligence in the field, purchasing several books on charities and sports management. Wanting to become better informed of her new pursuit, Chantel studied feverishly to understand the nature of the business, and how she could make a heavier impact in it. And that she did.

After being recognized for her efforts during the 9-city tour, Chantel became in demand from several athletes and organizations who hoped to have her work with their foundations as well. Completing some time spent in Miami at Drama Sports where she got to work hands-on with every part of building a charitable event, she moved on to Athletes For Causes, opening a wide array of doors, allowing her to work alongside several big-name athletes from Jim Brown and Marshall Faulk to Kenny Smith, Ricky Williams, and many others. With these athletes, she helped build and run several foundations, golf tournaments, bowling tournaments, and community outreach programs, all for a greater cause, and all for the people.

Moving back to New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, Chantel spent 5 months working at a hotel to aid her friend who ran it, before moving up to New York to help another friend in the entertainment industry. Knowing nothing about the industry itself, it didn’t take her long to learn the ropes and make her presence known by simply getting the job done. Once again being recognized for her efforts she became in demand in the entertainment world as well to help book events, parties, and important deals; so much so that she decided to start her own company known as FlipFlop Management, the name coming from her constant footwear attire while proceeding on the path she’s been on. “I never thought I would be in this position but then again, yes I did. God knew exactly what he was doing with me from the beginning. I can say it has been a great ride, and I look forward to making a trail for others worth following.” Fantastic words from a young woman who doesn’t just make things happen, but makes a difference in the process, and that kind of positive path, is always worth following.