PhillyCAM is Open: Read our updated COVID-19 Policy.
Derwood Selby - March Member of the Month
Channel surfing one rainy Thursday evening, following my recent return to the states from Germany, I came across the PhillyCAM station. Just one year later, I've realized a life-long endeavor of hosting my own television series. With the technical training received through PhillyCAM's workshops—headed by a dynamic group of professionals—a supportive network of staff members, and most importantly, finding a like-minded production team, The Selby Signature Food Show took flight.
With a discriminating palate for tasty, textured blends, I offer more healthy food options using my core herbs and spices—with simple cooking techniques—to create delicious, nutritious cuisine suitable for every budget. As chef and host of The Selby Signature Food Show, I take to the streets of Philadelphia and other cities across the nation observing urban culture while 'getting the culinary pulse of the people'.
Inspired first by my late father, who cooked daily and grew our vegetables in our small backyard, and with the training of a demanding staff of siblings, the benefits of good, hearty eating became evident early on. I looked forward to the daily gathering while taking copious notes on popular television chefs.
Later, western philosophies on food, nutrition and medicine informed my strategies about meal preparation as I began to understand the impact of malnutrition on the disenfranchised. And then, discovering foods' healing properties further ignited my passion to set new culinary standards.
My mission to empower individuals to live healthier lives (with a mind-body consciousness) begins with the promotion of community garden development— particularly for those living in urban contexts. “I look for opportunities to discuss the need to grow fresh food, whether it be on a window sill, rooftop, backyard or a vacant lot. And not just as a boring chore that some might see it as, but a family-to-community activity that reaps life-long benefits.”
The Selby Signature not only serves as a platform for culinary demonstrations, but a visual reference for urban youth so that they may consider culinary arts as a career choice.
My sincere thanks to my executive producer, director, and crew member, Jennifer Burton, Howard Gilliam, editor and crew member, my other production associates along with the entire PhillyCAM staff. Simply put: “PhillyCAM has given me wings!
The Selby Signature on PhillyCAM Saturdays at 6pm
Be sure to Like Us on FaceBook and Follow me on Twitter and Youtube