Preparation
01 · Define the purpose
- Make individual contributions to the group visible in a symbolic and creative way.
- Foster self-esteem, mutual recognition, and group cohesion.
- Establish an atmosphere of openness, trust, and connection.
02 · Design the moment and context
- Decide whether to use it as an opening activity, an introduction exercise, or a team integration activity.
- Adapt the language and depth to suit the age, culture, and familiarity level among participants.
03 · Prepare materials
- Suitcase-shaped templates on paper or cardstock (optional).
- Markers, colored pencils, stickers, magazines for cutting (if doing a collage).
- Alternatively, a shared whiteboard or digital tool to represent the suitcases.
04 · To run the dynamic virtually
- Use collaborative tools.
- Can also be done orally in a round during a video call.
Step-by-step instructions
1
Introduction to the group
- Explain that everyone will symbolically "pack" what each person brings to the group.
- Share examples to inspire (energy, listening, commitment, humor, creativity, experience).
2
Individual reflection
- Each person thinks of 1 to 3 things they bring or want to contribute to the group.
3
Symbolic representation
- Those who wish can draw or write what they "pack" in their symbolic suitcase.
- Optional: use images, words, metaphors, or emojis.
4
Sharing with the group
- In a circle, each participant presents their suitcase and what it contains.
- Respectful and uninterrupted listening is encouraged.
5
Group closing
- Summarize what the group "carries in common" after having listened to all the suitcases.
- Reflect on how these contributions can strengthen the shared journey ahead.
Materials
Blank sheets or suitcase-shaped templates (optional)
Markers, colored pencils, scissors, glue (if you want a visual or artistic approach)
Device for virtual connection (if applicable)
Collaborative whiteboard or digital platform (if virtual)
Practical recommendations
Offer examples at the start to help participants understand the symbolism.
Validate all contributions as valuable, avoiding hierarchies.
Adapt the dynamic to the level of trust already existing within the group.
You can repeat this dynamic at the end of a process, asking what participants are taking in their "suitcase" now.
Inspiration
Variations according to the moment in the process
- Start of a process: "What do you bring in your suitcase for this group journey?" – ideal for activating individual resources and initial attitudes.
- During the process: "What have you added to your suitcase?" – useful for visualizing learnings and adjustments.
- Closing of experiences: "What are you taking in your suitcase as this journey ends?" – promotes reflection on achievements, learnings, and bonds formed.
- Invite participants to use real objects (if in person) or digital images (if virtual) that represent what each person brings.
- Suggest building their suitcase with emojis, colors, or metaphors ("I'm bringing a compass because I'm always looking for direction...").
- Combine with a second round: "What would I like to find in the group's suitcase?" to identify needs, wishes, or complementary contributions.
- In early childhood or primary education: use drawings or puppets to represent contributions.
- In community processes: connect contributions to local knowledge or lived experiences.
- In work teams: link the suitcase to roles, competencies, or shared team values.
