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this is my body 2026 Application

Please read the following closely.

This is my body is only open to self-identifying women of color in the San Francisco Bay Area. Applications will close on Friday, February 13, 2026. Decisions will be made by Monday, February 16, 2026.

PROGRAM FEE:
Sliding scale of $500-$800. Payments above $500 support future program scholarships. Program fees include:

  • One half-day mini retreat with food, drinks, and welcome gifts
  • 5 workshops focused on developing cohort members' writing and performance skills
  • 1:1 coaching sessions to support writing and performance development
  • Headshot and performance photos
  • Supportive cohort to help you navigate the experience during and beyond the program
  • Ongoing mentorship beyond the program

SCHOLARSHIPS:
Due to the generosity of community, we are able to offer 3 full scholarships for the 2026 this is my body program. Partial scholarships may also be available.

Scholarships are meant for individuals who cannot financially pay the program fee and would not be able to participate in this program otherwise.


COVID-19 SAFETY MEASURES:
COVID-19 continues to be an ongoing concern for our communities. We want to ensure that everyone can participate safely. We will collectively decide on community agreements to determine indoor mask protocols and social distancing.

For more information about the program, including past performance showcase videos, visit: https://www.novaliacollective.com/thisismybody

Please reach out to contact@novaliacollective.com with any questions or concerns.
1.Name (First and Last)(Required.)
2.Pronouns(Required.)
3.Email Address (please use an email address you actively check)(Required.)
4.What are your preferred pronouns?
5.Phone Number(Required.)
6.How do you identify racially and/or ethnically?(Required.)
7.Age (we are committed to age diversity in our programs)(Required.)
8.Where in the Bay Area are you located?(Required.)
9.What stories, ideas, or themes would you like to explore in your final piece? Please consider this list a brainstorm. You can decide to share a story not reflected here as you explore more during the program. If you need inspiration, you can check out our digital anthology.(Required.)
10.We are excited to support a program focused on women of color. In less than 100 words, let us know in what other ways you will add a diverse and unique voice to the cohort.(Required.)
11.We want to ensure that participants will be able to take full advantage of the program and be present as we build community together. Please confirm that you can make all of the following program dates by checking the boxes below. If you cannot attend all sessions, please apply in a future year.

We recommend holding these dates and times on your calendar now. We will try to select locations that work well for cohort members and will share them directly to cohort members to ensure safety. All workshops will be in-person. Please plan for working individually on your piece between workshops, feedback sessions with us, and optional group gatherings to support community and additional feedback.(Required.)
12.Check this box if you would like to be considered for a scholarship? Scholarships are meant for individuals who cannot financially pay the program fee and would not be able to participate in this program otherwise.
13.We are committed to accessibility. Please list any services or accommodations that you need to attend the workshops.
14.How did you find out about 'this is my body'?(Required.)