Born in the United States but raised in Australia, Derek studied acting at Nepean University in Sydney. After Nepean Derek changed career paths from film to join the United States Navy where he lived on board an Aircraft Carrier for over two years working with weapons and explosives and participating in operations related to the Global War on Terror. After being honorably discharged Derek then joined the U.S. State Department and worked at the U.S. Consulate in Sydney, Australia. Derek spent his time at the State Department working and liaising daily with various government agencies. He was awarded several 'Extra Mile' awards as well as the prestigious 'Franklin' Award for superior service.After marrying his high school sweetheart, Derek decided to leave his 'desk' job and together they started humanitarian aid work which led them to live in many countries, including Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Thailand and throughout eastern Europe - these travels led to child abuse laws being changed, orphanages being opened and roads being paved to tribal areas. His travels and work then led him to Kona, Hawai'i where he soon joined The Film Institute, bringing his desire to act full circle. Derek has worked as David Cunningham's Assistant for several years and has been able to branch out in various areas of the entertainment industry. Most recently Derek was an Associate Producer on feature film "Jo, The Medicine Runner", starring Matt Dillon and Jim Caviezel and directed by David L. Cunningham.Derek now heads up the second largest film studio in the state of Hawai'i and manages several companies working out of Honua Studios, including the nationally-awarded GVS Accelerator. Show less «