Vice President,
APCO Worldwide
“Derwin Johnson served as a lead trainer in a capacity building program, offered by APCO Worldwide to Southeast Asian Government. Over 500 press and communication officers from 16 government ministries participated and as well as government spokespeople.
His training sessions focused on international best practices for media relations, understanding and addressing expectations of international reporters, and media strategies. The program included presentations, case studies, discussions and exercises in break-out groups to help participants internalise key learning and practice new skills under realistic scenarios. Active participation and dialogue strengthen interest and involvement.
Derwin also conducted individual media-training sessions with several ministers and other senior officials to prepare them to handle print and broadcast interviews.
He did an extraordinary job with the training program and sessions with government officials. Because of his extensive media experience and previous high-level roles in the broadcast media, participants appreciated having Derwin as a trainer and felt they learned much about the inter-workings and needs of international media. His sessions received top scores on post-training evaluations and many commented on the value of his insights and strategies shared.”
Senior Executive,
Global Communication Firm
“Derwin Johnson is one of the most skilled trainers I’ve ever seen. Drawing from his extensive experience as a journalist, university professor, and corporate communications professional, Derwin brings a unique perspective and insight to sessions that are both an enriching and an enjoyable experience for participants. On an interpersonal level, Derwin has both gravitas and a congeniality that puts trainees from all backgrounds and experience levels instantly at ease.”
Senior Executive,
Global Law Firm
“In my opinion, Derwin is an expert Media coach. We met when he conducted a two day media training for a few of our top-tier Executives that focused on dealing with the media during a crisis situation and beyond. As a Corporate Communications VP, I have been in the business for more than 20 years. Derwin has a depth and breadth of knowledge that you don’t see every day. He has a keen eye for identifying the key core issues and then quickly develops/implements tactical strategies to proactively manage situations. He delivers his message intelligently and with humor and gives 150%. It was my distinct pleasure to work with him and I look forward to working with him again in the future.”
Senior Communication Director, Global Sports and Entertainment Company
“Derwin Johnson offers a very comprehensive media training session for executives. His interactive style provides participants with various opportunities to evaluate and learn how to overcome potential challenges when speaking with the media. Derwin’s extensive journalist experience lends great insight to the training while also providing numerous tips that are often overlooked.”
Executive External Relations Director, Global Financial Services Company
“Derwin is a hands-on media trainer and our executives have found his style approachable and well thought out. His workshops not only provide best practice techniques, but include role playing that better prepare you for real world experiences.”
Senior Executive – Media Relations and Public Affairs, National Bank in the United States
“Derwin is one of the most accomplished and effective media and presentation trainers in the U.S. I have worked with him with a wide range of clients, spanning multiple industries, all of who have been impressed by his skill and ability to understand their particular issues, challenges and businesses. Derwin has the ability to be both personally charming while very challenging as an interviewer and reviewer, which is essential to effective training. His impressive and accomplished background gives him the gravitas and credibility that makes senior executives really listen to what he has to say.”
Senior Internal / External Communication Executive, Global Public Relations Firm
“Derwin is a master at asking the tough questions and has a keen insight for addressing clients' communication and marketing issues. He is a steadying force when clients need to address highly sensitive topics and keeps a laser-like focus on messages that will resonate with all levels of stakeholders.”
Global Marketing Director, Global Law Firm
“Derwin has an incredible talent for helping his clients establish credibility and poise in public venues. Combined with his expertise in the techniques of crafting messages and delivery tactics, the end result for those he works with is the ability to present and communicate with tremendous confidence and profound sincerity – both of which audiences respond to.
Derwin Johnson has the unique advantage of having been there and done it in the media, while currently being plugged into how large corporations and world politics work. His critical and strategic observations are delivered with panache and aplomb, which resonated with the firm’s Managing Partner and other top Shareholders. His ideas and direction allowed those working with him to take their communication skills into an entirely new realm and deliver their messages effectively to both internal and external audiences.”