Derrick Ashong

Derrick Ashong is a highly respected cyber security speaker, whose work sits at the dynamic intersection of technology, media and culture. As the Founder and CEO of TBTM, and creator of Take Back the Mic: The World Cup of Hip Hop, Derrick has redefined how global audiences engage with interactive media. His thought leadership has seen him take the stage at the UK Parliament, Harvard University and the United Nations, where he delivers compelling insights into how technology shapes modern society, from the rise of artificial intelligence to the challenges of disinformation.

Derrick’s distinguished career began at Harvard University, where his passion for the arts led to the co-founding of the band Soulfège in 2003. His early ventures into music and media quickly propelled him into international prominence, collaborating with industry icons like Janet Jackson and Debbie Allen. His work has reached global audiences via MTV and the BBC World Service, while his acting debut came in 1997, portraying Buakei in Steven Spielberg’s “Amistad”. As a media pioneer, Derrick was among the first to harness video podcasting alongside luminaries such as Oprah Winfrey and John Legend. His role as host of “The Derrick Ashong Experience” on Oprah Radio and “The Stream” on Al Jazeera English earned him a Royal Television Society Award and multiple Emmy nominations.

Beyond his media accomplishments, Derrick has established himself as a successful entrepreneur. As the founder of Ashong Ventures and Entrepreneur in Residence at Thesis Ventures, he has continually pushed the boundaries of media and technology. Under his leadership, TBTM has emerged as an award-winning media fintech platform, partnering with Fortune 100 companies like Mastercard to revolutionise how culture and commerce intersect. His digital series has received widespread acclaim, becoming a finalist in the Original Interactive Programming category at the 2015 and 2016 Emmy Awards, and securing seven other international honours.

Today, Derrick Ashong is a sought-after keynote speaker, renowned for his expertise on topics including artificial intelligence, the digital divide, leadership in the modern age, and the profound societal impacts of emerging technologies. Whether interviewing global figures like Kofi Annan and Desmond Tutu, or addressing thousands at events such as the Mobile World Congress, Derrick captivates audiences with his unique global perspective and deep industry knowledge. To secure Derrick Ashong for your next event, hire Derrick Ashong via The Cyber Security Speakers Agency.