Derek joined 88rising in 2016 after watching Desiigner perform “Panda” live in Chinese on 88rising’s YouTube channel. He was the company’s first business hire and currently leads business development, strategy, financing, and international expansion. He is an ardent supporter of AAPI causes, especially with regards to giving Asians a bigger voice in the media.

88rising is a global music collective that focuses on celebrating Asian talent, stories, and Asian culture. Sean Miyashiro and his team manage a strong roster of Internet-breaking sensations including Rich Brian, Joji, NIKI, Higher Brothers, Stephanie Poetri, etc. More recently, Sean has partnered with K-pop idol Jackson Wang to release a number of singles under the label. Last May, Miyashiro pioneered an 88rising-centric virtual festival, Asia Rising Forever, in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. With over three million viewers worldwide, the live stream spotlighting Asian talent from across the globe in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. All proceeds raised during the event were donated to Asian Americans Advancing Justice. Sean went out to create 88rising in 2015 after noticing the lack of Asian talent in mainstream media. Almost five years later, the company has grown to be the most influential Asian music brand in the world with artists spanning across Asia.