Be the change you want to see in society — through empathy, dialogue, and inclusion.
The Satoru Foundation Fellowship is a field-based research program designed to explore how aging unfolds across urban field sites within the Hyderabad metropolitan region, Telangana. Through this project, fellows engage directly with communities to study the lived experiences of senior adults, understand social and cultural patterns of aging, and identify key issues affecting their well-being and participation in society.
The fellowship offers passionate, socially engaged individuals a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in understanding how aging unfolds in India’s urban contexts. Fellows will work closely with senior citizens to explore their lived experiences, daily routines, and social interactions in fast-changing cities.
Through community engagement and applied research, fellows will observe, listen, and document how senior citizens navigate everyday life — from family interactions to participation in community spaces. The insights generated will help shape inclusive aging policies, programs, and public understanding.
We welcome applicants with a postgraduate degree in:
We also invite researchers, social workers, and community practitioners with 2–5 years of field experience in relevant areas, even without a postgraduate degree. Candidates must be able to speak and read both Telugu and Hindi (mandatory).
Be part of a 6-month journey of empathy, research, and social impact — working closely with senior citizens across Hyderabad to build a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Application Deadline: 25 November 2025 Start Date: December 2025
Satoru Foundation Fellowship is a hands-on, immersive program designed to develop committed individuals who want to contribute meaningfully to grassroots development and social change. Fellows work on real-world challenges alongside communities and the foundation’s team.
The fellowship aims to build a new generation of changemakers who understand the realities of underserved communities (senior citizens) and are equipped with the skills, empathy, and leadership to create long-term impact.
The standard duration of the fellowship is 6 months, including a training period at the beginning.
Yes, fellows receive a monthly stipend to cover basic travel and field expenses.
Anyone (aged 22 to 32) who can speak the local language and who is familiar with Andhra Pradesh and Telangana society and culture.
A postgraduate degree in any discipline (ideal streams: social sciences, humanities, behavioural and health sciences, social work) is required. We also welcome researchers, grassroots workers, and social workers without postgraduate degrees but with at least 2–5 years of field experience. Knowledge of Telugu and Hindi (speaking and reading) is mandatory.
No, prior experience is not mandatory. However, experience through volunteering, internships, community initiatives, or field-based research projects is a plus.
You can apply online through Satoru Foundation’s official website or designated application portal. Follow the instructions and ensure all required documents are submitted.
Typically: (A) Completed application form, (B) Statement of Purpose (SOP-short video introduction), (C) Resume or CV, and (D) Optional relevant certificates.
The exact deadline will be mentioned on the application page. It is recommended to apply early, as applications may be reviewed on a rolling basis.
The process includes: (A) Application & SOP review, (B) Skills assessment or task, (C) Virtual interview, (D) Immersive assessment day (in-person), and (E) Final interview and background checks.
Yes, this is a full-time commitment. Fellows are expected to dedicate their time (Monday to Saturday) to fieldwork, training, and team collaboration.
You’ll work on grassroots initiatives focusing on senior citizens such as community engagement, lifelong education support, technology re-skilling, intergenerational activities, or research and advocacy, depending on your role and project needs.
Fellows undergo structured training and orientation at the start, followed by ongoing mentorship, capacity-building workshops, and periodic reviews.
Fellows’ work is primarily based in and around the Hyderabad metropolitan region, with possible travel to nearby rural or semi-urban areas.
Yes, fieldwork is a core part of the fellowship to help fellows understand ground realities and engage directly with local communities.
Yes, each fellow is assigned a mentor from the Satoru Foundation team who will guide, support, and track their progress throughout the fellowship.
Performance is evaluated based on field engagement, professional conduct, leadership growth, contribution to outcomes, and participation in training and team activities.
The Satoru Foundation collaborates with local communities, panchayats, schools, government departments, and NGOs to ensure community-driven and sustainable initiatives.
Fellows receive a monthly stipend (exact amount shared in the Fellowship application form and job description). Additional benefits include access to training materials, professional development support, and resources.
Basic medical support, emergency assistance, and accidental insurance coverage are available during the fellowship. However, fellows are advised to have their own health insurance for comprehensive coverage.
Yes, fellows are entitled to weekly offs and public holidays as per the Satoru Foundation’s calendar. Fellows may also apply for personal leave with prior approval, but flexibility is essential to avoid disrupting fieldwork or project timelines.
Extensions may be considered based on performance, project needs, and mutual interest. High-performing fellows may be offered leadership roles or opportunities to join the Satoru Foundation team full-time.
The initial 1-month training period serves as a probationary phase with orientation, workshops, and community exposure visits.
Yes, fellows receive their stipend during the training period as well.
Fellows are evaluated, and those who meet expectations continue into the full fellowship phase.
Fellows are expected to attend all sessions, participate actively, show learning aptitude, demonstrate team spirit, and complete assignments.
If a fellow withdraws during the training, they may not receive the full stipend and will not continue to the full fellowship stage.
The foundation provides an opportunity to improve, but if no progress is observed, the fellow may be advised to leave the fellowship during the training program.
Currently, the fellowship is primarily based in Telangana, centered around Hyderabad. Expansion to other regions may happen in the future.
Fellows can indicate preferences, but placements depend on project needs, skills, and language compatibility.
In most cases, yes. Fellows remain in the same base location, though some may travel occasionally for training or short-term assignments.