Derek's background

Derek Ross is a trailblazer in online community building, leading the way in the decentralized digital age. Driven by a passion for creating meaningful virtual connections, Derek is a known figure in using nostr to bring people together worldwide and grow nostr adoption.

With over 20 years in Information Technology, Derek has seen and shaped the evolution of online communities. He first made his mark with Google+ by building a thriving Android user community with over 4 million members and 2 million followers on his personal profile. He then transitioned into online journalism, covering smartphone news and providing in-depth reviews for Phandroid, one of the oldest Android news sites.

As a newly sought-after speaker, Derek has shared his expertise with diverse audiences, from entrepreneurs, to small and medium sized business owners, to established corporations, and to every day average individuals looking to find their home on the Internet. His talks delve into the art of creating vibrant online ecosystems, emphasizing the pivotal role of authenticity and engagement.

Derek’s expertise in online community dynamics and his commitment to fostering spaces where voices are heard and relationships thrive make him a crucial player in today’s digital world. In a time when connections are more important than ever, Derek is a leading force in guiding us towards a more connected and decentralized future.

Outside of speaking engagements, Derek continues to work in Information Technology, where he excels in systems administration, network engineering, and various other IT roles. For the last decade, he has managed ERP student information systems.

Beyond social community building and technology, Derek is a family man, married with two children. <3