A Camberwell woman has been back to her old haunts with an inspirational story: How she went from cancer survivor to representing England internationally as a powerlifter.

Elaine Jackson, a former fashion designer and creative producer for Nickelodeon and Columbia Records, began lifting weights while recovering from cancer. Speaking at the Camberwell Talks in St Giles’ Church on November 3, she described how her life changed when she was diagnosed with cancer.

She was in her 50s. It would be a few more years before her debut competition in Elephant and Castle, which she describes as “not very good, but I loved it.” In June 2024, she won a gold medal at the British National Powerlifting championships.

“Training extends your life and productivity,” said coach Alex Jackson, who supported Elaine from very first session.

Before powerlifting, Elaine worked in theatre costume design, appeared on Top of the Pops, and travelled across Europe managing creative projects. It was a career very far away from the gym floor.

But everything changed when she was diagnosed with cancer. Seeking to build up physical and mental strength, she joined a local gym. Soon, she was training six days a week under the guidance of her coach. Her favourite strength training exercise, the deadlift, quickly became a personal symbol of power and resilience. The deadlift requires a loaded barbell to be lifted from the floor to a standing position and then lowered back down.

Elaine said her journey hasn’t been without setbacks. During lockdown, she suffered a shoulder injury, which required physiotherapy and surgery.

Today, Elaine not only competes but coaches others, encouraging people to discover and redefine their purpose whatever their age. “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to be great to finish,” she said, echoing the mantra that guided her through difficult times.

Her coach summarised their shared philosophy: “Motivation is a house made of straw, but dedication is a house made of brick.”

After decades of reinvention, Elaine Jackson seems to have built hers from steel.