Research. Create. Perform. Share Tamil Stories with the world.
Are you interested in research, digital collections, or creative storytelling with the Tamil community? The UTSC Library is seeking applications for the 5th cohort of the Sophia Hilton Storytelling Fellowship. Each Fellow receives a $3,000 stipend and resources to carry out projects during 2026 that engage with or enrich the Digital Tamil Studies collections. A living list of project ideas for which there is already support is available online.
Applications are due December 15, 2025.
Introduction
The Sophia Hilton Storytelling Fellowship supports up to three student projects each year. Fellows will create new work that engages with the Digital Tamil Studies collections through research, creative interpretation, or community-based storytelling. The Fellowship is designed to strengthen connections between UTSC Library, faculty, and the larger community while contributing to the preservation and circulation of Tamil cultural heritage.
Projects Might Include
- Collections Research & Enrichment
- Conduct original research or create digital/physical exhibits that expand and contextualize existing materials.
- Creative Reinterpretation
- Transform the collections into performances, multimedia projects, or digital exhibitions. For example, past Fellows have staged performances inspired by the Legend of Ponnivala.
- Community Storytelling
- Document underrepresented Tamil experiences, preserve important data, or create new digital resources in collaboration with community members.
A list of possible projects for which we have support is also available online.
Why Apply?
- Boost your academic or creative portfolio
- Expand your network — on campus and in the community
- Receive $3,000 + mentorship
- Gain research, creative, and digital skills
- Leave a legacy and share your story publicly during Tamil Heritage Month
Commitment & Compensation
Fellows design projects that can be completed anytime within one year, beginning as early as February 2026 and concluding no later than January 2027. Each Fellow receives a $3,000 stipend and additional resources. Projects follow the approved timeline and are shared publicly during Tamil Heritage Month (January 2027) as part of the Digital Tamil Studies Symposium.
Fellows will collaborate with UTSC faculty, library staff, and community organizations, building skills and networks that extend beyond the university.
Eligibility & Application Process
We welcome applications from full-time University of Toronto students (who have completed at least one year of study by the start of the Fellowship). Students may graduate during 2026, but must be enrolled in January 2026 and complete their project before graduation. Priority will be given to those based at U of T Scarborough or with strong ties to the campus.
The Fellowship is open to students across disciplines with interests in digital collections, storytelling, Tamil studies, community building, arts, or performance. No prior experience is required — enthusiasm and commitment are essential.
The UTSC Library is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Applications are especially encouraged from students who identify as Indigenous, Black, racialized, 2SLGBTQ+, persons with disabilities, or members of other equity-deserving groups.
Application Details
Deadline: December 15, 2025. Successful Fellows will be announced in late January 2026.
Submission Materials
- Unofficial transcript
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Project Proposal (2–3 pages), including project idea, potential faculty/community partners, and preliminary budget
Please submit all materials to dsu@utsc.utoronto.ca by the deadline.
Application Checklist
Step 1: Meet with the Fellowship Coordinator
You must meet with Kirsta Stapelfeldt (kirsta.stapelfeldt@utoronto.ca) about your idea. Virtual and in-person appointments available. Please let us know if you are interested in one of the current projects.
Step 2: Prepare Your Materials
- Unofficial Transcript: Upload your most recent U of T transcript.
- Resume or CV: Highlight academic background, skills, and relevant community/creative work.
- Project Proposal (2–3 pages):
- Project Idea: Describe your research, creative, or community project.
- Connection to Digital Tamil Studies: Explain how your project will use or enrich the collections.
- Statement of Interest: Share your motivation and how this fellowship supports your goals.
- Timeline: Confirm milestones to ensure completion before January 2027.
- Faculty/Community Partner(s): List confirmed or potential partners.
- Budget: Provide a modest project budget or quotes (materials, performance costs, honoraria).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to speak Tamil? No. There are many ways to engage with Tamil culture that are valuable to this fellowship.
- Am I eligible if I graduate in spring 2026? Yes, as long as you are enrolled in January 2026 and finish your project before graduating.
- Can I collaborate? Yes. Projects may involve friends, family, faculty, or community partners. Consider partnering with us on an ongoing project!
Next Steps
Meet with Kirsta Stapelfeldt to discuss your idea.
Email: kirsta.stapelfeldt@utoronto.ca
Then, prepare your application and submit all materials to dsu@utsc.utoronto.ca by December 15, 2025.