Biography:
Denise Ho Wan-see, born on May 10, 1977, is a Hong Kong-born Canadian Cantopop singer and actress. She is also known for her pro-democracy and Hong Kong human rights activism. In 2012, Ho made headlines when she came out as a lesbian, becoming the first mainstream Cantonese singer to do so. Her announcement broke barriers and paved the way for greater LGBTQ+ visibility in the Asian entertainment industry.
Ho’s journey towards activism began with her participation in the Umbrella Movement in Hong Kong in 2014. This movement called for greater democratic rights and universal suffrage, and Ho’s involvement led to her being blacklisted by the Chinese government and luxury brand Lancôme, which resulted in the cancellation of her endorsement deal with the latter.
Despite facing backlash and being targeted by authorities, Ho remained steadfast in her commitment to fighting for the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents. She continued to speak out against injustice, using her platform to advocate for democracy and human rights. Her resilience and determination made her a prominent figure in the pro-democracy movement, inspiring many others to join the cause.
In addition to her activism, Ho has had a successful career in the entertainment industry. She began her journey in 1996 when she enrolled in the New Talent Singing Awards (NTSA) competition. To her surprise, she emerged as the winner, which opened doors for her to connect with Anita Mui, a renowned Cantopop singer and her childhood idol. Mui became her mentor and played a pivotal role in shaping Ho’s career.
Ho’s debut album, titled First, was released in 2001, during her fourth year with Capital Artists. Produced by Choy Yat Chi of the band Grasshopper, this album showcased Ho’s unique style as a rock-pop independent female artist. The album’s success led to Ho receiving the award for Best New Singer in various music award ceremonies that year.
Unfortunately, Ho’s journey faced a setback when her first record label, Capital Artists, filed for bankruptcy in October. Despite this setback, Ho’s talent and passion for music persevered, and she continued to create music independently, gaining a loyal fanbase.
Beyond her musical achievements, Ho’s impact on society cannot be understated. Her activism, particularly in the face of government censorship and repression, has made her a symbol of resistance and courage. She has fearlessly used her voice to advocate for equality, freedom, and democratic rights, not only in Hong Kong but also worldwide.
Ho’s story serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting the importance of using one’s platform to create positive change and fight for justice. Her unwavering determination and commitment to her beliefs have made her a respected figure in women’s history and the wider human rights movement.
Awards:
– Best New Singer (Various music award ceremonies, 2001)