INTRODUCING DEREK

Derek was born in Ahousaht and lives with his family. He has four siblings and enjoys playing the bass guitar and serving on the worship team.

FAITH AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Derek grew up attending Sunday school with his siblings. While he had early exposure to the church, his personal faith began to take root when he attended the AYC (Aboriginal Youth Community) Youth Christian Camp in 2025. During that time, he encountered the love of Christ more deeply, which led him to be baptized at AYC last summer. Since then, Derek has made a clear commitment to pursue pastoral ministry. He carries a growing desire to serve his community, help others, and share the true love of Jesus Christ so that more people may follow Him.

Since March 2026, Derek has been under the mentorship of Wes Linde at Valley Church in Duncan. Through this relationship, he is being intentionally developed in theological understanding, biblical interpretation, personal transformation, and the ability to clearly share his testimony within a discipleship context.

Looking ahead, Derek is prayerfully preparing to begin his theological studies this September through the Competency-Based Theological Education (CBTE) program at Northwest College and Seminary. Together with his friends, he will pursue the Faith Foundations Certificate within the Ahousaht community church—an approach that allows him to remain rooted in his community while being equipped for long-term ministry. We are grateful for how God is raising Derek as part of the next generation of Indigenous leaders who will faithfully serve, disciple others, and help establish sustainable, locally led churches.