Ask Others About Themselves

Usually people like to talk about themselves and the more you ask the more interesting they think you are for asking.
Do pay attention to what they say because there is no bigger turn off than not really listening or remembering anything they said.

Newsmakers.

Current topics on the news are certain ice breakers. What is topical either politically or financially or business wise, or are there any human stories of the moment.
Perhaps there is a scientific breakthrough of some kind.
It is worth noting that you should avoid topics on religion, politics or the legal system. Because they can be very senstive areas, it is best to avoid them as you could easily say the wrong thing. As well as this, they are so emotive that arguments can easily start.So the lighter topics are much safer, because even if you disagree, there is no big fallout.

On the subject of the news, if it really is of interest to you, it is a certain way to avoid any shyness you may have.
Once you start thinking along these lines and practice them you will start to learn how a conversation can begin, and as you do, so your confidence will improve.