During a training session, I noticed some trainees dominating discussions while others hesitated to share. To address this, I set ground rules for respect and equal participation. Then, I introduced an activity where each person had to contribute a unique insight before moving forward. This created a space where every voice mattered. Fostering inclusivity isn’t about forcing participation—it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

Training a diverse team starts with more than just covering the basics of respect and inclusivity. It requires creating an environment where every person feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute. Set the tone early. Make it clear that different perspectives are not just welcome but essential. Encourage open dialogue and model active listening. Make learning accessible. Use different formats, real-world examples, and interactive elements so everyone can engage in a way that works for them. Create space for shared learning. Give trainees opportunities to exchange experiences, challenge assumptions, and shape discussions together. When people feel seen and respected, they show up differently.

In leading a diverse team of trainees, fostering inclusion means some guidance - or even pre-session training - that ensures respect for all. While many trainees from diverse, underrepresented backgrounds experience high imposter syndrome, so do others - it’s a shared challenge. Coupled with this, ALL trainees will have some areas for growth and learning. As such, trainees need to be self-aware but may need guidance to even understand that this is a helpful, positive characteristic. By cultivating a culture of mutual support, self-awareness, and respect, we create an environment where everyone - whatever their stream of diversity - feels valued and empowered to grow.

To foster a culture of respect and inclusivity in a diverse team of trainees, it’s essential to create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard

According to my experience, developp peer to peer evaluation is a way to express that every trainee can bring something positive to the group and not only the trainer