KhmerTalk: S1-E10Chantha Banks was born and raised in Battambang, Cambodia. Survival shaped her life from an early age. During the Khmer Rouge regime, she was separated from her parents for nearly a year, and she and her older sister were forced to become child soldiers. In that time, fear became familiar—but so did resilience. Survival was not a choice; it was a necessity.Those experiences gave her a survivor’s mindset. She gained determination, adaptability, and an unwavering will to persevere, no matter the circumstances. That mindset carried her across continents and led to a lifelong commitment to service. She devoted more than 27 years to Federal Law Enforcement, including work with the Federal Reserve (a banking financial institution) and the United States Secret Service as a uniformed Federal Law Enforcement officer.After retiring, she allowed herself two years to rest, reset, and heal. But because service is at the core of who she is, she returned to the field as a patrol Sergeant in Federal Law Enforcement with the United States Department of Defense/Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). She continues to protect and serve others. For over 15 years, she has also served as a recruiter and mentor, guiding and supporting those stepping into federal law enforcement.Mentorship became her calling; she knew firsthand the power of having someone believe in her when the path seems impossible. Building on these experiences, her mission today is deeply personal. She is committed to inspiring and empowering women worldwide to pursue careers in male-dominated fields (especially within the Khmer community). The journey is not easy—but with the right support, mentorship, and inner strength, it is possible. If her story proves anything, it is this: our past does not define our limits. Even in the darkest moments, courage can grow. With it comes the power to rise, lead, and thrive. She encourages us to take the first step—support one another, share your story, or reach for that opportunity. Together, we can change the future.Chantha’s mission is to inspire, mentor, and empower women, especially those from backgrounds of hardship, trauma, or underrepresentation. She aims to help others pursue careers in male-dominated fields with confidence and resilience. As a war survivor and lifelong federal law enforcement professional, Chantha shows that the past does not define potential. Through mentorship, leadership, and lived experience, she strives to create paths where women are supported so that they never have to walk alone. The journey is hard, but with guidance and belief, it is possible.KhmerTalk Host:Srey KrayKhmerTalk Special Guest:Chantha BanksSet Designer:Srey KrayOrn PhinMichael-Te ChiengMusic By:Ryan O'Neal - Music at http://www.slipperylee.comSerey Im - RoneatExecutive Producer:Chenda OuchSrey KrayMichael-Te ChiengExecutive Director:Michael-Te ChiengDirector:Orn PhinSocial Media Director:Zakiya RobinsonKhmerTalk Board Member:Chenda OuchPhally SoeungNek Kru Darachan RosHak-Ry SreyJenda KongSrey KrayOrn PhinRady Mey OumSamuel DanhKeo ChhimMichael-Te Chieng