Sylvestore’s research, cross-bias: Exploring gender and indigenous representations in artificial intelligence to promote equity and inclusion in Canada’s historically underrepresented communities; We will examine how AI systems reflect and replicate system inequality. Building on the framework of research creation, she blends critical research and artistic practice to explore the social impact of emerging technologies and imagines more inclusive digital futures based on care, accountability and community engagement.
Michel Silvesto’s creative work spans traditional and digital media.
“This scholarship is an incredible opportunity to advance inclusive technology through creative, community-involved research, led by my work as a researcher at Nituta Pipod at CIART (Centre for Indigenous Arts, Research and Technology),” Sylvestole says.
Sylvestre is one of only 16 graduate students from the national pool of 686 applicants, offering up to $210,000 over three years, supporting tuition and research-related costs, and helping access to a national network of interdisciplinary academics and mentors.
Sylvestre’s creative work is an interdisciplinary artist and session instructor in the Faculty of Art at Ulethbridge’s New Media, and spans traditional and digital media focusing on the intersection of technology, craft and identity.
“My project examines colonial and patriarchal bias within a large-scale language model of artificial intelligence (AI). Using a framework that creates research, I aim to imagine a future built on the basis of care, inclusion and accountability, while criticizing AI,” she says.
“It’s an extraordinary achievement for Michelle and the Faculty of Art,” says Heather Davis Fish, dean of the Faculty of Art. “Michel has demonstrated excellence throughout her academic career as an undergraduate, master’s student and now a doctoral candidate. Her work illustrates how rigorous research and creative practices come together to address some of the most urgent social issues of our time.”
Dr. Jackie Rice, dean of the Graduate School of Studies, emphasizes that Sylvestore’s choice reflects both the strength of her research and the high level of support she receives as a doctoral student at Urethbridge.
“With a rigorous selection process that involves in-person interviews with more than 680 qualified applicants for this program, the foundation is extremely proud to recognize the excellent work Michelle is doing and provide funding to help amplify the impact of her work,” says Rice. “We look forward to continuing to support her with her doctoral studies and we look forward to where this job will take her.”
As a scholar at the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation, Sylvestole is part of a national network of outstanding researchers who are committed to advancing equity and social justice through their work. Foundations established in In 2001, in honor of the former Prime Minister, I support outstanding, cutting-edge doctoral advancements that have a meaningful impact on our community, institutions and more.
“Becoming a scholar at the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation is an exciting opportunity to collaborate between disciplines and develop lasting relationships with changemakers across Canada,” says Sylvesto.
