The Encoreship, launched in 2021, is a game changing initiative to empower women in confidently re-entering the workforce after an extended period away - because after the intermission comes the encore.
The Encoreship has one purpose. Empowering women+ returning to the workforce through inspired action from brands within the fashion, lifestyle, and beauty industry.
The Encoreship program offers three-month paid placements across brands you know and love in Australia and support transitioning back into the workforce with our recruitment partners.
For brands that want to get involved and make a difference in 2026, please email pc@dissh.com.au. We look forward to hearing from you.
“It has changed the trajectory of my working years. I can’t overstate how impactful it’s been – so much more than I could have ever imagined.”
– Hayley Sowden, DISSH 2023 Encorer
“Go for it. It's empowering. It will change your view of who you are as an individual. It will give you back your confidence, and you will soar.”
— Lisa Reffold, DISSH 2022 Encorer
The Encoreship Program
The Encoreship was created for women facing challenges re-entering the workforce after an extended period away – whatever the reason. Be it seeking financial independence, to build confidence, a new skill set, or other, this is our call to action, because everyone deserves to have a purpose-filled life – whatever that may be.
Only 32% of mothers feel confident enough to re-enter the workforce (Get Qualified, 2016), and only 59% of mature age women (55 – 65 years) continue, compared to 72% of mature age men (Australian Government Women’s Workforce Participation, 2020). With initiatives like The Encoreship, we can help bridge that gap.
In 2021, we welcomed our first inspiring and deserving woman into the program here at DISSH, with 6 currently within our Encoreship Alumni. With a new year, we plan to do it all over again (and again).
2026 Encoreship Applications will be opening soon.
Stay Tuned
"With more programs like the Encoreship, hopefully companies will realise that there is a hidden workforce, which they do not currently tap into, which has an array of skills, experience, and maturity to bring to their organisations."
– Lisa Reffold, DISSH 2022 Encorer
“Giving financial independence through finding employment is something we pride ourselves on being able to help others with. Truth be told, nothing makes what we do matter more.”
– Lucy Henry-Hicks, CEO of DISSH
