Full Bio:

Derrick Shirley received his undergraduate degree from the University of Victoria, his Masters Degree in Applied Psychology from the University of Calgary, and holds a professional Certificate from the University of British Columbia in Cross-Cultural Counselling Skills. He is a Registered Canadian Counsellor (CCC) and Certified Nutrition and Wellness Specialist (NWS) in private practice in Calgary, AB. As a Consultant and Public Speaker, he has spoken to audiences nationally and internationally, and has made several media appearances including: CBC Radio One, Global National, and local News outlets.  He sits on the board of Directors for the Alberta Association for Multicultural Education as President Elect, was a Sessional Instructor with the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Calgary where he taught a graduate course on diversity-related issues, and is an active stakeholder and volunteer with several community initiatives. He has an teen aged son and actively competes in triathlons, preferably when it is warm.

Short Bio (100 words):

Derrick Shirley holds a Masters Degree of Science in applied psychology, is a motivational speaker and diversity consultant, registered counsellor and coach, and local personality in Calgary, Alberta. He has made appearances on local and national TV, radio, and print media outlets and community events, and speaks nationally and internationally. Derrick is an avid writer, an active volunteer with several community initiatives, sits on the board of Directors for the Alberta Association for Multicultural Education, is a Sessional and guest instructor at the University of Calgary, an active triathlete, and father of one teenager.

Media Appearances

and Published Articles…

(March 2009) Guest consultant on CBC Radio One's, Wild Rose Country Live Talk show with host Donna McElligot. Topic: "The influence of race and culture in gang involvement."

(March 2009) Interview with Global News reporter, Nancy Hixt regarding local Anti-Racism demonstrations.

(February 2009) Guest consultant on CBC Radio One's, Wild Rose Country talk show with host Donna McElligott. Topic: "Gang Proofing your Kids."

(January 2009) Interview with Global News reporter, Jill Croteau showcasing the Colourz presentation at two local Junior High Schools.

(June 2008) Interview with Global News reporter, Jill Croteau regarding the Hate Crimes statistics in Calgary.

(March 2008) Interview with CBC Radio One reporter, John Spittle, and Global News reporter, Jill Croteau, regarding the recent Human Rights Ruling on the racial discrimination in Calgary nightclubs.

(December 2007) Self-Help Article: "Hello, it's God. You're stressed out." - A Light-hearted Look at Communicating with the Divine." KIVA Magazine. (click here for the article)

(September 2007) Self Help Article: "Peanut Butter in your Coffee?: Enjoying the Freedom of Unconventional Doing." for KIVA Magazine (A Podcast of this article is coming soon)

(August 2007) Feature Story on CBC Radio One with Carol McDowell on the Bthat1 program at Bishop McNally High School, Calgary, AB (click here to hear the interview)

(August 2007) Two interviews with Global News Calgary reporter Nancy Hixt regarding the resurgence of white supremacist activity and recruitment posters in Calgary.

(June 2007) Interview with Global TV News reporter Jill Croteau regarding Global's coverage of racial profiling in Calgary's night clubs.

(February 2007) Interview with CJSW radio reporter regarding Black History Month Celebrations in Canada.

(September 2006) Interview with Global News for Derrick’s reaction to the new Television Series “Survivor” that promoted Race vs. Race divisions of contestants.

(May 2006) In depth interview and consultation with Global News reporter Jill Croteau regarding Derrick’s research and community work in Calgary, AB.

(April 2006) Guest “Bachelor” in a Charity Bachelor Auction for the Heart and Stroke Foundation at the “Taste of Jamaica” Annual Event.

(March 2006) Guest columnist for the Calgary Urban Essence (CUE) online magazine addressing anger, stress, and our “social dis-ease”.

(June 2005) Appearance as a one of four panel members on Global Sunday, a nationally aired program. This episode addressed the research and community repercussion of racial profiling within the Kingston Police force.

(September 2004) Global News appearance/interview with Jill Croteau as part of her racial profiling in Calgary Nightclubs story.

(November 2004) CFCN/CTV interview with Kirk Hauser as part of his story on hate crimes and racism in Calgary.

(March 2004) Appearance as one of four panel members on North Idaho College’s Public Forum, a PBS talk-show televised in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. This episode addresses US and Canadian relations and Human Rights issues.

(Winter/Spring 2005) – Half-page profiled/interview for an article that appeared in the University of Calgary’s,  Eye on Ideas international magazine (p. 13).

February 2004 – Interviewed on CJSW (Campus Radio) for my involvement within the University Community and the E.S.C.A.P.E. program.

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I have struggled with weight issues and low self-esteem stemming from a variety of experiences (violence, discrimination, loss, and grief). Our struggles are a part of our life. How we approach them is what makes the difference. Now, I have lost over 170lbs and have learned a few things along the way about life and loving life. My Motto is simple: Live while you have the life. Again, thanks for stopping by.

Media Resources

Downloadable pictures for your publications: