Chanika, 29, East London

Why did you want to take part in Fight School?

I endured personal trauma in the past, losing twins during my pregnancy and then bereavement when my child died shortly after birth. Since then, I had stopped going out, I wasn’t myself and I was putting on weight. I started looking to see if there was anything I could do to help myself. I came across Fight School and I knew it would give me a new focus.

How did you feel when you got the call to say you could join?

I thought I’d be joining with everyone else but then ended up in intensive care with Covid 19. I had spent nine days in hospital and so it was totally crazy when I got the call to then be told I was going to be part of this amazing opportunity! I arrived later than the others because I was still recovering from Covid, but I was so pleased that Idris didn’t give up and I would have the chance to change my life.

How did you feel when you walked into the house as a late entry?

I was very nervous, but to my surprise Idris opened the door and everyone was so welcoming. I was the eldest in our group and living in the house with the others was such a great learning curve for me. Whenever I had any struggles, I always reminded myself why I was doing it. I was determined to show other young women who have been through what I have been through to keep on going.

How did you find learning to box?

Learning to box was intense, it is not easy. You need to find a deeper purpose, but I did it and I loved it. Boxing is both mentally and physically stimulating. It gives you a purpose and drive to achieve something you don’t think you can do. I also lost weight doing the boxing training and I’ve gone down from a size 16 to a size 14 doing all the exercise.

How was Idris as a mentor?

He was amazing, encouraging and so easy to talk to. He is very personable and genuinely cares about young people. We had lots of chats, he made sure we all had his mobile number if we needed him for anything. At the end, he gave me a T-shirt which he wrote on saying ‘You are an inspiration’. I am going to frame it!