Mr. Derwin academic journey begain at Sullivan Business School, where he earned associate degrees in business and marketing, forming a solid foundation for his future achievements. A humble leader by nature, he has consistently shown a sharp eye for identifying everyday challenges, with an undying resolve to finding practical solutions that improve the lives of those around him.
FROM SALES TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Mr. Derwin’s path to success was not always straightforward. Before founding Hunt Innovations LLC, he built a solid foundation in sales, starting with a job at a retail mall. His career took a significant turn when he entered the car business—a field he had never initially considered. Over the course of 26 years in this field, he refined his professionalism, communication abilities, and business acumen. His interactions with individuals from diverse backgrounds inspire him to appreciate the diverse paths people follow in life; this inspiration, in turn, fuelled his curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit.
Mr. Derwin’s ambition extended far beyond the transactional nature of sales; therefore, he ventured into mortgage financing, a field he pursued for five years. His foray into this sector coincided with the global economic downturn, which forced him to reconsider his career path. This period of uncertainty proved to be a turning point for Mr. Derwin. Instead of being discouraged, he embraced his innovative spirit and sought to develop a product that would serve the greater good. The desire to create something lasting and meaningful eventually led him to establish Hunt Innovations LLC. The company, under his leadership, has pioneered breakthroughs in bathroom safety. Its success is evident in its expanding client base, with over 450 products sold and 362+ happy clients.
THE “EUREKA MOMENT”
In a moment of inspiration—what he refers to as a “eureka moment”—Mr. Derwin conceived an idea that changed his career forever. His entrepreneurial journey began with a seemingly ordinary observation while visiting his brother’s home. He noticed a shirt drying on the edge of the bathtub, much like how hotels often display branded towels. This prompted him to reflect on the effectiveness of such practices, as towels frequently end up on the floor and fail to achieve the intended brand visibility.
Additionally, he recalled his own experiences of slipping and injuring himself on bathtub edges, leading him to question the safety of these areas. This moment of introspection sparked his entrepreneurial spirit. It also inspired him to create a solution that would not only improve safety but also present a new branding opportunity for businesses in public spaces.
REVOLUTIONISING BATHROOM SAFETY
Mr. Derwin developed SoftSide, a patented bathtub cushion that addresses the safety concerns of individuals with mobility issues and offers a solution to a common issue bathtub discomfort and the risk of falls. This innovative cushion not only enhances comfort but also provides an extra layer of safety for families, caregivers, and individuals across various age groups. His entrepreneurial journey, marked by resilience and adaptability, demonstrates the importance of embracing change, continuous learning, and grabbing opportunities as they arise.
What sets SoftSide apart from other safety products is its combination of practicality, aesthetics, and advanced technology. Mr. Derwin meticulously designed every aspect of the product, from its U-shaped foam cushion to its non-slip coating, for ease of installation. The product’s key features include superior surface security, advanced splash and drip absorption, unmatched impact absorption, and a timeless aesthetic. Its unique design ensures a firm grip, and prevents slips and falls, while its advanced features provide added safety and comfort. Furthermore, its aesthetic appeal enhances the look of any bathroom and transforms it into a safer, more stylish space. The result is a safer, more comfortable bathing experience for people in households and professional care environments alike.
SoftSide’s durability and ease of maintenance have made it a staple in households and care facilities for years.
GLORIOUS ACHIEVEMENTS
Mr. Derwin’s entrepreneurial achievements have not gone unnoticed. His efforts have earned the company over 10 prestigious awards. His innovative contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including being named Top CEO and Inventor of the Year by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP). IAOTP is a highly selective organisation that recognises professionals for their contributions to their fields, academic achievements, leadership abilities, and community involvement. Mr. Derwin’s inclusion in this elite group of honourees underscores his influence as a visionary thought leader.
Mr. Derwin has also been featured in Marquis Who’s Who for Top Executives, a distinction that highlights his impact as an entrepreneur and inventor. In addition, he earned the Hall of Fame Award & the Most Innovative Product for Medical and Hospital Services Award, further solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in his field. Later this year, he will be considered for a feature in Top Industry Professionals (TIP) Magazine. He will also be honoured at the IAOTP annual gala in Nashville for his selection as Top CEO & Inventor of the Year.
GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mr. Derwin is deeply committed to giving back to his community. He is an active member of the National Small Business Association, a nonprofit organisation that offers resources, services, and benefits to businesses, employees, and retirees. His humanitarian efforts are a natural extension of his desire to improve everyday living conditions for people with mobility challenges. He envisions his patented product, SoftSide, becoming a household staple, ensuring safer living environments for people across the globe.
PRIORITISES WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Mr. Derwin loves spending quality time with his family. He attributes his success to his wife, LaWanda, and their three daughters, Lauren, Sequoia, and Mya. Looking ahead, he hopes to build a lasting legacy for his family, particularly for his daughters, whom he hopes, will carry on his commitment to innovation and community service. His dream is to see his name included in the renowed American Inventors book.
