Archival Memories
Archival Memories is a quick partner storytelling activity that uses early photos on participants' phones to spark conversation and build trust. It encourages vulnerability and helps people connect through sharing personal narratives.
Use this activity at the beginning of a workshop or meeting to help participants get to know each other on a more personal level and create a more comfortable and connected environment.
Solves: Superficial introductions that fail to create genuine connection; difficulty building rapport quickly in new groups.
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Step 1: Form pairs. [10 seconds]
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Step 2: Instruct each person to access their smartphones and scroll to the earliest possible image. [30 seconds]
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Step 3: Invite each partner to share the story behind the image or photograph with their partner. [1 minute]
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Step 4: (Optional) Swap partners or try a variation. [10 seconds]
- Encourage participants to be respectful and attentive listeners.
- Remind participants that they can choose what they are comfortable sharing.
- Have participants share their photos with the whole group.
- Ask participants to find a photo that represents a significant moment in their lives.