EMPLOYMENT
SECURITY CLEARANCE
For spouses who wish to work as locally engaged staff (LES) at the Canadian Embassy or NATO HQ, they must have a security classification of at least Level II Secret. Once you receive your posting message, the procedures for requesting a security Clearance can be started. The request can be made by the dependent from Canada or once in Brussels. Please note that the process can take several weeks. For all information requests or to send your request forms, please contact: [email protected]
JOB OPPORTUNITY
The Canadian Joint Delegation to NATO, Canadian Embassy, and Canadian Mission to the European Union occasionally provide some full-time and short-term contracts for spouses. If you are interested in sending your CV, contact: [email protected]
VOLUNTEERING
There are a wide range of volunteer opportunities in Brussels. The NATO Charity Bazaar is one of the larger charitable events which is held every year in the month of November. NATO nations come together to showcase some of their best products in support of the NATO Charity Bazaar. The Bazaar is an excellent opportunity to show our great Canadian spirit while enjoying some shopping and supporting other NATO countries in their sales. Trust me, this is one sale you do not want to miss!!
Each year the Canadian contingent sets up a committee, usually but not limited to the spouses. The Committee organizes the ordering, selling and managing of the Canadian Bazaar efforts. The Committee is always looking for volunteers to assist in the organization and lead up to the Bazaar weekend. More information will be provided at the Welcome Brief in September.
The Bazaar has been running for over 50 years, providing NATO a chance to give back to Belgium with 29 nations participating. In 2019, 268,000 € were raised, with 35% of profits given to Belgian charities and 65% to international charities. The Canadian contribution in 2018 was ~14,000€.
Another way to volunteer is through the Advisory Committee (AC). The Military Family Services (Europe) (MFS (E)) Advisory Committee (AC) is a group of volunteers representing Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) families and communities across Europe. As an AC volunteer, your main role is to advise the manager of the MFSP Europe on the real needs of the community and to have their opinions on the programs offered.
