Veteran Jamaican broadcaster Dervan Malcolm has died
Veteran Jamaican broadcaster Dervan Malcolm, whose voice became a fixture on Power 106 FM during a career spanning more than three decades, has died.
Malcolm died on Thursday following a period of illness, according to the RJRGLEANER Communications Group, which extended condolences to his family, colleagues and friends.
Malcolm spent 31 years with Power 106 FM and built a distinguished career that saw him serve in several roles, including news presenter, news editor, sportscaster, talk-show producer and executive producer of programming.
His journey into broadcasting began while he was a student and head boy at Calabar High School. A performance at the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s Festival of the Performing Arts attracted attention and eventually opened the door for his entry into media.
He read his first newscast on Power 106 FM on October 24, 1993, beginning what would become a decades-long association with Independent Radio Company, which operated Power 106 FM and adult contemporary station Music 99 FM. The stations were later absorbed into the RJRGLEANER Communications Group.
In March 2007, Malcolm became host and producer of “Both Sides of the Story” on Power 106 FM. The current affairs programme became closely associated with his commitment to public education and advocacy, reflecting what he described as his mission to educate, empower, enlighten and encourage entrepreneurship.
His work also extended beyond Jamaica.
Malcolm hosted “The Jamaican Diaspora Live Online,” a Saturday morning programme focused on issues affecting Jamaicans living overseas. He also conducted numerous live broadcasts from Jamaican diaspora communities internationally.
His journalism and community work earned him several accolades, including the Diaspora Ambassador in Media Award from the New York-based Union of Jamaican Alumni Associations.
He also received the Bickle Award from Team Jamaica Bickle in recognition of his dedication to highlighting issues affecting the Jamaican diaspora.
In November 2014, Malcolm was recognised by the City of Los Angeles and the Jamaica Awareness Association of California for his contributions to the Jamaican community.
Beyond broadcasting, Malcolm was an advocate for road safety and child protection, using his platform to raise awareness about issues affecting Jamaicans at home and abroad.
His death brings to a close a broadcasting career that began more than 30 years ago and leaves behind a legacy of journalism, advocacy and public service.