Noteworthy

Brenda Ha is a co-founder, investor, and Board member of AFC Toronto, the city’s first professional women’s soccer team competing in the newly established Northern Super League. A graduate of the Commerce program at Queen’s University, she brings deep business expertise shaped by her experience as an entrepreneur and as a former Account Manager and Senior IT leader at two of Canada’s Big Five financial institutions.

A seasoned volunteer with a history of leadership roles in her community, Brenda is passionate about promoting gender equity, inclusion, and diversity in sport. She is dedicated to creating opportunities that inspire youth to dream big, pursue their goals, and achieve their fullest potential.

Noteworthy: How do family traditions and music shape your Lunar New Year celebrations?

Brenda Ha: As a child, my parents would always prepare 떡국 (ddukguk) – a traditional Korean rice cake soup. The soup symbolizes longevity, purity and a fresh start. As a child, it always felt like a warm hug!

At every Lunar New Year, I think about the traditional song, “Arirang”, which is Korea’s beloved folk song for the ages. It represents love, loss but also perseverance and hope. I met the Korean-fusion band, Gonia, through their performance at an AFC Toronto home game last summer; they posted a version of this song on YouTube which I love listening to, which showcases their own interpretation of “Arirang”:

NW: How does Lunar New Year bring communities together, and what role do you see the TSO playing in that shared experience?

BH: Lunar New Year brings communities together by creating a shared experience of reflection and celebration that crosses generations and cultures. It is a time when families gather, traditions are passed down and stories are shared. In diverse cities like Toronto, Lunar New Year also opens doors for cultural exchange. Events like the TSO’s Lunar New Year celebration invite people from all backgrounds to participate, learn and connect. These moments foster mutual understanding and remind us that while our traditions may be different, the values they celebrate – hope, gratitude and new beginnings – are universal.

It is important for me to support the TSO and help shape the TSO’s Lunar New Year celebration as it is an event that unites and encourages us to slow down, honour our roots and look forward together with optimism and respect.

NW: Is there a tradition you’re excited to pass on or share with others this year?

BH: For me, this TSO Lunar New Year celebration is about to become my new tradition! I’m excited to come together as a community on Saturday, Feb. 28 – first by sharing a delicious meal where stories are shared, values are reinforced and relationships are strengthened; and then, following that, attending a concert together which will make the experience even more powerful. Music has a way of bringing people closer, transcending language and background, and turning a gathering into a shared memory that stays with us long after the celebration ends.

Celebrate the Lunar New Year with us on February 28, 2026—before tickets are gone. The Year of the Horse concert is almost sold out, and only a limited number of Lunar New Year Celebration Silver Supporter Tickets remain. Secure premium seating, enjoy special performances, and join us for an exclusive dinner at the Shangri-La Hotel. Reserve your place now at TSO.CA/LNYDinner.