We recently connected with Derrick Botts Jr and have shared our conversation below.
Derrick , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
Instruments of Praise is open to worshippers of all ages and backgrounds. We lead people in worship, deepening the connection to God, understanding the teachings of Christ, and ultimately to a vibrant faith.
Instruments of Praise, established in 2016, creates a space that is inclusive for all believers. It is an experience like no other that provides a free range platform for creatives to be instruments of praise to the King of glory.
IOP was created to inspire every believer from all ends of the creative arts spectrum – from dancers to mimers, rappers to singers, poets to business owners – a space to be an instrument of praise to the King of glory. Our mission is to empower you through anointed worship services and multifaceted workshops while providing a lively Glory-filled concert for all to enjoy and be blessed by!
2 Chronicles 5:13-14 KJV
IOP even provides business owners the space to market and sell their products. We first look to help those in our community by promoting local artists, dancers and business owners.
We have a long, proud history of serving the people of Los Angeles. Through the dedication of our leadership, staff members and volunteers, we are committed to the teachings of Jesus Christ, and are here to spread His message. Contact us today to find out more about becoming part of the Instruments of Praise community.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Derrick Botts, Jr. is a Los Angeles native who has been fortunate to emerge as a freelancer.
He has served as assistant producer of a benefit concert featuring recording artist Erica Campbell, a producer of a local artist showcase, and a graphic designer for local city government events. He also has operated as an event planner servicing birthday parties, baby showers and businesses all throughout California.
Derrick also serves as a youth leader and church administrator for his church, Gethsemane God’s Garden of Prayer Church, in Los Angeles, California, under the leadership of Pastor Elder Wayne Botts and First Lady Joyce Botts. Derrick has been blessed to be able to be groomed in ministry while serving right at home. As a result he is also blessed to serve the church community as the Convention Experience Director of the International Pentecostal Young People’s Union, under the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World Organization.
Beyond being blessed with leading and serving God’s people , Derrick’s most prized responsibility has been loving. his beautiful wife Kailyn J. Botts. Together, God has used them as a beacon of hope to lead the community to the power of God.
Now, having hosted IOP for over six years, Derrick is emerging as one of his generation’s leaders in the areas of ministry and creativity.He is a visionary who is passionate about empowering and inspiring his generation to use their God-given gifts to edify the kingdom, strengthen churches, and to bless the communities around them and across the globe.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Life has not always been easy. One of my biggest struggles has been my vision. In 2019, I was diagnosed with a cornea deteriorating disease, Keratoconus. Keratoconus is when the clear, dome-shaped tissue that covers the eye (cornea) thins and bulges outward into a cone shape that can lead to blindness. Its cause is unknown and progresses with age. In my case, it was progressing rapidly and immediate surgery was highly recommended being in which I was nearly blind in my right eye.
After two successful surgeries in each eye, I was in hopes that I can somewhat experience a normal life.
Fast forward to now with stable eyesight no progression for the worst or better, I can truly say I’m grateful still to see. God is faithful!
The emotional rollercoaster I experienced left me feeling defeated at times but always hopeful. One of things that remained constant on this ride was my passion for people and more desperately the desire to create. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing an idea come to fruition.
Through my obstacles and challenges I found my strength in not harboring in my problems but pivoting to discover new ways to create.
Resilience is moving forward despite opposition
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
I’ve built a reputation by being intentional in every relationship. I’ve always took pride in honoring partnerships with loyalty and consistency. I believe that your character and integrity supersedes your resume or repertoire. I have organized each business endeavor with these exact qualities that has allowed me every opportunity in my market. Being consistent and kind with a business mindset has always been my strategy .It is ultimately because of God that I am who I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.weareiop.com
- Instagram: @iamdbjr_ & @weareiop
- Facebook: Instruments of Praise
- Youtube: @derrickblvd “Wassup Derrick”
- Email: weareiop@yahoo.com, derrickbottsjr@yahoo.com
Image Credits
ANS Photography Blessed Images Kreative Kapturez