Jamaican Diaspora Mourns Beloved Broadcaster Dervan Malcolm

The Jamaican diaspora, both at home and abroad, is mourning the loss of Dervan Malcolm, a respected broadcaster and the popular host of 'The Jamaican Diaspora Live Online.' Malcolm, who would have turned 51 on October 13, passed away on Friday, leaving a significant void in the media landscape.

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For more than 30 years, Jamaicans listened to Dervan’s calm, distinct and trusted voice. Through his work at Power 106 FM and especially his programme ‘Both Sides of the Story’, he created space for meaningful conversations on the issues that mattered to Jamaicans at home and in the diaspora.

For over 30 years, Malcolm's voice was a familiar presence on Power 106 FM. His program, 'The Jamaican Diaspora Live Online,' served as a vital link, giving a voice to Jamaicans excelling in the diaspora. It connected the community abroad to its homeland, spotlighted Jamaican businesses, and highlighted the achievements of individuals in their adopted countries.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness expressed deep sadness at Malcolm's passing, remembering him as a consummate communicator who informed, educated, and empowered his audience. "Through his work at Power 106 FM and especially his programme 'Both Sides of the Story,' he created space for meaningful conversations on the issues that mattered to Jamaicans at home and in the diaspora," Holness stated.

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Jamaica has lost a respected broadcaster and a distinctive voice whose contribution will not be forgotten.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade also paid tribute, recognizing Malcolm's consistent support and engagement with the ministry's activities. He frequently served as a moderator and master of ceremonies at key diaspora events, including the Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference. The ministry expressed gratitude for his years of dedication to Jamaica's diaspora.

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We are grateful for his years of support and engagement with the ministry and Jamaica’s diaspora. He will be greatly missed.

Nekeisha Burchell, speaking for the People's National Party, described Malcolm as a "super talent" and a master of the broadcast craft. She noted his powerful voice and signature style, highlighting his ability to create an accessible platform for serious public discourse while maintaining an entertaining quality. Malcolm was part of an early generation of broadcasters who helped define Power 106 FM as an informative and engaging station.

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Dervan Malcolm was blessed with a powerful, silky voice, but his gift went far beyond the quality of his voice. He was poised, controlled and totally unruffled behind the microphone, with a signature style that was unmistakably his own.