A unique partnership with global not-for-profit organisation, Dress for Success, is helping women at Bandyup Women's Prison build confidence and prepare for life beyond custody.
More than 150 women came together for a recent fashion show with a difference - swapping their prison clothing for interview-ready outfits.
The 'Dress for Success' initiative helps women develop practical skills for employment and provides an opportunity to feel empowered and supported.
Twelve women participated in the weeklong program culminating in a runway event, selecting outfits that suited their individual style to model from a range of donated, professional clothing. They also had their hair and make-up styled before taking to the catwalk.
Women from the prison and custodial staff and guests gathered in the prison's gym to cheer them on.
Assistant Commissioner Adult Women's Prisons Anika Smith said events like the fashion show build confidence and lifeskills to help women on their journey back into the community.
"Programs like this support offender rehabilitation, reduce the likelihood of reoffending, and above all, help restore a sense of pride and purpose," Assistant Commissioner Smith said.
The event was organised by Bandyup Assistant Superintendent Carol Brampton in collaboration with the 'Dress for Success' charity which helps women build confidence and economic independence through employment.
Assistant Superintendent Brampton said the partnership brought together a shared commitment to supporting women.
"The women were able to connect with others and take steps toward securing sustainable employment and improving their future," Assistant Superintendent Brampton said.
Bandyup Assistant Superintendent Michelle Osborne said the program helped women reconnect with their self-worth after extended gaps and hardship in their lives, including incarceration.
"Many of the women have experienced long periods away from their families," Assistant Superintendent Osborne said.
"The confidence they showed on the catwalk was phenomenal and will benefit them when they return to the community."
Dress for Succes CEO Natalie Sangalli said that the organisation was proud to help at Bandyup.
"After working with our facilitators on goalsetting, using AI in the workplace, confidence and wellbeing, it's been amazing to see the women walking confidently, feeling sassy and hopeful about their future."
"The team at Bandyup were so easy to work with and clearly passionate about supporting the women."
Participants said the experience left them feeling motivated and confident about their prospects post release and they were happy to be able keep their work-ready outfits.
Women at Bandyup also raised $3,000 through fundraising efforts, which was donated to 'Dress for Success.'
