This person is on display in the Contributing Wrap in the People Gallery
(1929 - )
Born in Barbados 1929, Derek came to Bristol in 1954
after his eldest brother had secured him a job with Bristol Pneumatic Tools in
Fishponds. Derek later became involved with the Barbados and Caribbean Friends
Association which led to him becoming a school Governor for 20 years at Brunel
College and Whitfield School.
Derek worked tirelessly with schools and children to change attitudes. At
that time, the exclusion rate of children from black and minority ethnic groups
was high. Many teachers had little knowledge and understanding of diverse
cultural backgrounds. He also encouraged children to achieve personal goals and
stay in school, rather than slip through the net.
“All the youngsters have potential they just need help to nurture this.”
Derek also organised conferences for young people leaving school who needed support to find work. He would bring together organisations including BAE (aerospace industry), Bristol City Council and the Princes Trust. He also campaigned for recruitment of more black and minority ethic candidates into the police force.
Derek worked full-time while dedicating his free time to these projects and received an award in 2013 for his contribution to volunteering in the city.