Sensei Derek

Sensei Derek Lau started training in Seido karate in 2000. He began teaching as an assistant in the children’s program in 2011 and now teaches adult white belt and general classes.

He has been a regular participant in Seido’s inter-dojo and Annual & Benefit tournaments, both as a competitor and a judge. He was awarded the Sogo (all around) Champion title in 2018, 2022, and 2023, and the Grand Champion title in 2024. He also placed first in semi-contact kumite in 2019.

Sensei Derek stresses the importance of humility in martial arts training and its role in shaping the practitioner’s mindset and interactions within the dojo. Humility encourages respect toward instructors, fellow students, and opponents and fosters a conducive learning environment where ego doesn't get in the way of progress.

Throughout his time teaching, Sensei Derek has learned the importance of patience. By teaching children and adults with a wide range of strengths and weaknesses, he has learned that patience allows him to adapt to students’ various learning speeds and challenges, ensuring their thorough comprehension and mastery of techniques. Patience also encourages students to persevere through difficulties, ultimately enriching their journey at Seido.

When he’s not at Honbu, Sensei Derek works as a packaging and brand designer.