Derek is an award-winning author and martial arts instructor who has been featured in magazines such as Wing Chun Illustrated.  Derek has been involved in kung fu at the young age of 8. He first started learning Wing Chun and Yang style Tai Chi. After graduating from York university, Derek continued to develop his kung fu in the style of Wing Chun in Toronto under the careful guidance of Sifu Nelson Chan.

To take his experience and training to the next level, Derek traveled to Hong Kong, the origins of kung fu cinema and the wellspring of Yip Man Wing Chun. During his stay, Derek continued his martial arts training where he further sharpened his skills and refined his techniques through the mentorship and guidance of various masters.

After returning from Hong Kong, Derek began training with a former Special Forces military veteran. Through regular sparing sessions and military drills, Derek had the opportunity to further hone his martial arts techniques as they apply to real-life combat and self-defense situations.

As an instructor, Derek hopes to help others by teaching them how to protect themselves practically and effectively through traditional Wing Chun forms and foundations, reinforced by techniques and skills applicable to real-life combat and self-defense situations. As well as applying the holistic and wellness aspect of Wing Chun into individual’s daily lives.

Aside from teaching martial arts and meditations, Derek is a certified personal trainer who specializes in performance training, as well as a certified Life Coach. His goal is to help individuals achieve a higher level of mental and physical fitness.