How to run this template
You will need 45–60 minutes, depending on group size and discussion depth. This template was designed for community gatherings, but it also works well for teams, companies, and internal networks.
Before starting, explain the purpose of the session: reflecting on the year, sharing learnings, and looking ahead together. Briefly explain the agreements (one idea per sticky note, be brief, ask if something is unclear). Prepare breakout rooms with 3–4 people per room.
1. Mini Gratitude Flash (3–5 min)Start with a short check-in to create a positive and human atmosphere. Ask participants to write one thing they are grateful for this year on a sticky note. There is no discussion in this step. The goal is to slow down, arrive, and set the tone for the session.
2. Rebel Roulette (20 min)Explain that this exercise is about peer-to-peer learning, not discussion or problem-solving. Before opening breakout rooms, ask participants to:
Write one “gift” from their year on a sticky note
Keep it concrete and personal
Open breakout rooms. In each breakout room:
Start with the person whose first name comes first alphabetically
Each person shares their gift (3–5 minutes)
Others listen without interrupting
Discussion is optional only if time allows
Remind participants that small insights, failures, and half-baked learnings are welcome.
3. Wild Idea Tree (10–12 min)Bring everyone back to the main room. Explain that this is a brainwriting exercise, not a discussion. Ask participants to:
Write one idea per sticky note
Focus on ideas that would make the community stronger, more connected, or more impactful next year
Add as many ideas as they like
Participants place their ideas on the tree. As ideas accumulate, a collective “Christmas Tree” will emerge. Encourage participants to briefly read other ideas once they are done writing.
4. Rebel Toast (5 min)Use this exercise to close the session. Ask participants to write a short toast or wish for the community on a sticky note. This can be read silently or out loud by a few volunteers. Example: “To a year of courage, connection, and breaking the right rules. Here’s to a bold and human 2026.”End the session with a collective toast or a shared screenshot moment.
