It was impossible to get time to chat to jet-setting Derek, but he sent us this Email to tell us more about himself:

A big “Howzit” to the Republic of Cape Town and all my new friends at Heart 104.9!

I’ve been a busy, busy guy over the past few months. From heading up the Weather Department at eTV and eNews to travelling the world for my non-profit organization, this life never seems to have a dull moment. The latest addition includes joining you for your morning cup of coffee on the Breakfast show at Heart FM. You can hear your very own personalized weather forecast on Heart every morning, to help you better plan your day.

Before moving to Africa, I was the on-air meteorologist for a morning show as well. So this is familiar territory for me as I understand what it takes to get your morning started right! I worked for NBC near Detroit, Michigan. I then travelled to South Africa with the non-profit organization, The Compassionate Life Foundation. Soon after, I fell in love with the Mother City as so many do. Now I call this my home away from home and I’m loving every minute of it!

When I was a young boy, I had a huge fascination with the weather. Naturally, I wanted to become a weather man on TV. Maybe a strange path to follow in life, but it truly is my passion. I studied Meteorology, Broadcast and Cinematic Arts and Mathematics at Central Michigan University. I even worked for the campus television station where I cut my teeth (and had a few embarrassing moments). You’ll just have to listen up in the morning to hear a few of the stories.

As a side note, I am an extreme sports enthusiast. I enjoy rock and ice climbing, skydiving, bungee jumping, and shark diving. I have played soccer my entire life and my main position is Goalkeeper. I have run several half-marathons and plan to accomplish a full marathon or triathlon whilst in South Africa.