Derik, 34, is the Canadian director and international vice-president with the Retail Wholesale Dept. Store Union, which has 1.3 million members worldwide. He attended Confederation College in Thunder Bay and graduated with a diploma in human resources, and a diploma in human resources management. He joined the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves in 1989. He is currently with the 2nd Battalion Irish Regiment of Canada. Under his leadership, the RWDSU is involved with the Leukemia Research Fund of Canada, and this year raised more than $1 million for research.

Q: What is your greatest professional
accomplishment?
A:My greatest professional accomplishment was earning the respect and confidence of the union’s executive board and membership that elected me to the positions of council president, Canadian director and international vice-president.

Q: What is your favourite movie or book?
A:Chicken Hawk (book)

Q: What is your personal motto?
A:Patience.

Q: What is the No. 1 thing you are working toward that you haven’t yet accomplished?
A:Currently, to finish the remaining courses left to complete my degree.

Q: What advice would you give to young leaders under the age of 40 to get more involved in their community?
A:As young leaders, it is your responsibility to carry on the work our predecessors have done to ensure our community is moving forward socially and economically for future generations.