Remote work isn’t just here to stay; it is changing how we connect. For those of us working from home, the kitchen table might double as our desk, but the sense of community can be felt miles away. That is why fostering inclusion in virtual teams is not just a ‘nice-to-have’, it is a must.

And the good news? There are plenty of creative ways to bring teams together, no matter where they are logging in from. Virtual diversity and inclusion (D&I) activities are more than just icebreakers. They are about building bridges between teammates with different perspectives, cultural backgrounds and life experiences.

These activities help folks feel seen, heard and valued, even from behind a screen.

Fostering genuine inclusion

Let us be real: working remotely can be isolating. Without those casual coffee chats or impromptu desk-side conversations, it is easy for people to feel disconnected. And if someone is part of an underrepresented group, that feeling of being ‘on the outside’ can hit even harder.

That is where virtual D&I activities come in. They create spaces where people can connect on a human level, share their stories and celebrate what makes each of us unique. It is about reminding everyone on the team that their voice matters.

These activities go beyond just checking a box. They are about fostering genuine inclusion.

And the impact goes beyond feel-good vibes. When teams take the time to share cultural backgrounds or personal experiences, something powerful happens: empathy grows. People start to understand one another, trust builds and collaboration becomes second nature. And guess what? That is how strong, high-performing teams are made.

Nine ideas for virtual D&I activities

Creating an inclusive team culture in a virtual space does not have to feel like a chore. In fact, it can be fun and inspiring. Here are some simple, impactful activities to get you started.

Cultural awareness activities

1. Virtual Cultural potluck: Ask team members to bring a dish that reflects their cultural background to a virtual meeting. Let them share the story or tradition behind it. It is a delicious way to learn about each other.

2. Cultural exchange sessions: Dedicate time for folks to talk about a meaningful holiday, tradition or story from their heritage. You will be amazed at the connections these conversations spark.

3. Virtual museum tours: Many museums offer online exhibits celebrating diverse cultures and histories. Take a tour as a team and discuss what stood out afterward.

Discussion-based activities

1. Virtual book clubs: Choose books that explore cultural differences, inclusion or social justice. Host casual discussions to talk about the themes and share perspectives.

2. Movie nights: Stream a film that highlights diverse stories or social issues. Follow it up with an open conversation about takeaways and reflections.

3. Guest speakers: Invite experts or advocates to lead discussions on topics like gender identity, disability inclusion or cultural diversity.

Interactive team activities

1. Diversity team-building exercises: Activities like the ‘diversity flower’ (where team members share aspects of their identities) encourage self-reflection and understanding.

2. Virtual escape rooms: These are not just fun but also showcase how diverse perspectives lead to creative problem-solving.

3. Unconscious bias workshops: These small-group sessions help teams uncover and address biases in a safe, supportive space.

Boosting business and employees

These activities are not just about ‘getting along,’ they are about transforming workplace culture.

Take the example of a team that hosted monthly cultural exchange sessions. Team members opened up about their traditions, challenges and joys, which led to deeper empathy and stronger bonds. Another team used virtual book clubs to explore themes of race and identity, creating space for honest, impactful conversations.

The result? A team that worked better together because they truly understood each other.

When employees feel valued for who they are, engagement soars. People stay longer, work harder and collaborate more effectively. A culture that prioritizes diversity and inclusion does not just benefit individuals. It strengthens the whole team.

Virtual D&I activities are a start, but the goal is bigger: to create a culture where inclusion is not just an event but a way of working.

Whether it is through leadership support, ongoing education or simply making space for people to be themselves, these efforts can create workplaces where everyone thrives. Because when teams celebrate what makes each person unique, there is no limit to what they can achieve together.

Opinions expressed by The CEO Magazine contributors are their own.