In a tumultuous year for arts funding, Meg Symsyk has been at the forefront of ensuring that Canadian talent and creative businesses have the support they need to thrive. Throughout the last two years, the president and CEO of FACTOR — one of the most important funders of music in the country — has been a fighter for the Canadian music industry and Canadian culture. That support hasn’t wavered amidst multiple challenges, including the theft of nearly $10 million from its Scotiabank account. The music industry rallied to support while Symsyk fought in court for corporate accountability, ultimately securing a settlement with the bank. Throughout it all, Symsyk has ensured that FACTOR has continued — and in many ways, expanded — its support. She advocated to ensure the renewal of the Canada Music Fund, announced $2 million in funding for live music through its Promoter Program and Festival Program and fought for Canadian curators and Canadian content during the implementation of the Online Streaming Act. After much debate, the federal government announced last week that it will invest $600 million in audio and audiovisual sectors, including FACTOR, marking the importance of investing in Canadian culture and IP amidst threats to sovereignty. She’s also a vital member of the team behind Rush, whose massive reunion tour is one of the most anticipated live events of the summer.