Meet Branda
Growing Up in Irvine
Irvine is my hometown.
My parents immigrated from South Korea in the 1970’s and moved to Irvine before I was born. I was born and raised in Irvine and grew up in the village of El Camino Glen. I attended every level of public school in Irvine – El Camino Real, Venado, Irvine High – and completed my undergraduate studies here at the University of California, Irvine, with a B.A. in music performance and political science. Professionally, I have worked as a litigation paralegal for over 15 years at top firms in NYC and Orange County.
Family Life
Now, I am a proud mother to two children who play in the same parks I enjoyed as a child. We have a multi-cultural family. Our Taiwanese and Korean heritage reflect the well-integrated diversity of our city. My life and my family have been shaped by Irvine and all it has to offer. I have seen firsthand the amazing growth of our city and its transformation into one of the best places to live in America.
I have a vested interest in continuing to improve municipal services, community safety, and the extensive system of parks, greenbelts and trails that sets Irvine apart.
Community Advocate
For two years, I served our city as a Community Services Commissioner, overseeing Irvine’s parks, recreation, and community programs. I also co-founded Irvine Watchdog, a non-profit organization dedicated to spotlighting city issues and holding elected leaders accountable. For the past four years, I have watched nearly every City Council meeting.
I have a passion for informing residents to empower residents.
Making a Difference in Irvine
I’m well-versed in the challenges we face.
From inadequate shade structures in our parks and playgrounds to asphalt plant pollution; piecemeal planning and insufficient retail in the Great Park; and high electricity rates without adequate notification from the scandal-ridden OC Power Authority. We look for clarity and accountability from our city government. Instead, we find misdirection, questionable ethics, and disregard for resident concerns. This must end.
Running to Represent You
As Mayor, I will focus on the priorities of our community and lead with integrity. In the last four years, I have advocated for numerous community groups, provided a platform to share their issues, and helped them navigate our municipal government, regardless of my personal position because I believe everybody should be heard. I exemplify issue-focused leadership and shared community values in a nonpartisan manner.
It’s time we take back our city and prioritize community concerns. You will not be ignored. Join me to implement responsible development, rebuild public trust, and restore ethical leadership to our city.
Community Service
• Irvine Community Services Commissioner
• Irvine Children Youth Families Advisory Committee Member
• Irvine Watchdog, Co-Founder
• Irvine Rotary Member
• The Smiles Project Irvine, Founder
- Community homemade cards for homebound seniors, healthcare workers, and IUSD teachers. See NBC4 news feature.
- Serving Local Farmworkers
- Period Project – “Periods Don’t Stop for Pandemics” collecting feminine products for women in need.
• National Women’s Political Caucus OC Board Member
• CASA, Court Appointed Special Advocate
• New Life Irvine Member
• Families Forward Volunteer
• Korean American Family Service Center Volunteer