5 Icebreakers and Energisers to Promote Inclusivity and Diversity

Whether you're leading a small group or a large class, setting the right tone from the start is crucial to making everyone feel comfortable and included. Icebreakers and energisers can help, not just to “break the ice,” but also to encourage diverse voices and perspectives to emerge. Here are five inclusive activities that you can try in your next session to build a sense of community and celebrate diversity.

1. The Name Game with a Twist

A classic icebreaker is to go around the room and introduce yourself. But to make it more inclusive and engaging, try adding a twist: ask each person to share their name and something unique about their culture, background, or a personal tradition they cherish.

Why this works

• Encourages participants to share aspects of their identity in a way that’s personal and celebratory.
• Helps others understand different backgrounds, fostering a sense of inclusivity.
• Sets a positive tone for diverse perspectives right from the start.

If the group is too large for individual introductions, split into smaller breakout groups so everyone has the chance to speak.

2. Common Ground, Different Paths

This energiser encourages participants to find things they have in common—despite differences in culture, background, or experience. Ask everyone to stand up, and then say statements like, “Everyone who speaks more than one language, raise your hand!” or “Raise your hand if you’ve ever worked abroad.”

Why this works

• It emphasises commonalities without diminishing unique backgrounds, showing that diversity and common ground coexist.
• It helps participants feel connected and seen, which is essential for an inclusive environment.

Use a mix of fun and deeper statements, and make sure they’re broad enough to allow everyone to participate in some way. The goal is to create a safe space, not to single anyone out.

3. Story Swap

Pair participants up and ask them to share a short story about a time they overcame a challenge, experienced something new, or learned from a mistake. After a few minutes, bring everyone back and ask volunteers to share their partner’s story with the larger group.

Why this works

• It promotes empathy and understanding, as participants learn about each other's experiences.
• Encourages people to listen to others’ stories and perspectives, which can broaden their own worldview.
• Creates a space for diverse voices and experiences to be celebrated.

Let participants know that sharing with the larger group is optional, so no one feels pressured. The aim is to foster connection, not force it.

4. Cultural Show-and-Tell

Ask participants to bring or share something that represents their culture or identity, whether it’s a personal item, a story, a song, or even a phrase in their native language. This activity can be done in-person or virtually, depending on the setup.

Why this works

• It gives participants the opportunity to share something meaningful and unique about their background.
• It’s a fun, non-intimidating way to learn about different cultures and experiences, promoting curiosity and respect.
• Helps participants feel proud and recognized for who they are, contributing to a more inclusive environment.

Set time limits to ensure everyone has an opportunity to share, and make it clear that sharing is voluntary.

5. Diversity Bingo

Create bingo cards with squares that reflect a range of experiences and identities (e.g., “I speak more than one language,” “I have lived in more than two countries,” “I celebrate a holiday that’s not Christmas”). Participants move around the room trying to find someone who fits each square. When they find a match, that person signs their square.

Why this works

• Encourages people to move around and interact with others they might not otherwise speak to.
• Highlights the rich diversity in the room in a light, interactive way.
• Promotes conversations around different experiences, creating a more inclusive group dynamic.

Make sure to include a wide variety of squares to cover different types of diversity—cultural, linguistic, professional, and personal. The goal is to celebrate a broad spectrum of identities.

When designing your icebreakers and energisers, always keep inclusivity in mind. The activities above encourage participants to share their stories, learn about others, and embrace different perspectives.

As a trainer, your role is to set the stage for this by creating a safe, open environment where everyone feels valued and respected. By using these inclusive activities, you're not just starting the session on a positive note—you’re also laying the foundation for meaningful engagement throughout the rest of the training.