Empowering Girls & Women in Tech
AntSpark 2026
A hands-on AI build programme for student builders ready to turn real ideas into working websites with ChatGPT Sites.
At a glance
A simple path from curiosity to launch-ready prototype.
Global virtual hotseats
Four online sessions with Ant International experts help students explore tech careers, hear honest stories, and build confidence before the live build day.
Buildathon in Kuala Lumpur
A focused in-person day at the Ant International Malaysia office where teams build quickly, get feedback, and sharpen their ideas.
AI-enabled creation
Use ChatGPT Sites to move from blank page to polished web prototype, even if you are new to web design.
About the organisers
Co-created by Ant International and Wavesparks.
Ant International
Ant International helps businesses to thrive through a full stack of AI-native payment, account, foreign exchange, treasury and growth solutions, underpinned by our trusted foundation models, security architecture, blockchain RTP platform and a world-leading mobile payment ecosystem. We drive relentless innovation to bring inclusive growth for merchants and communities of all sizes, today and tomorrow. To learn more, visit https://www.ant-intl.com/
Wavesparks
Wavesparks is Asia's launchpad for young founders.
We identify and support ambitious young builders before the world is paying attention. Through our early accelerator programmes, venture-building sprints, hackathons, workshops, founder communities, and early funding pathways, we help ambitious young people turn early ideas into real ventures.
Global Virtual Hotseats
Global virtual hotseats with Ant International experts.
Curious about tech, but not sure where you fit in? Join AntSpark Hotseat, a four-part virtual series with Ant International experts sharing real career stories, practical advice, and honest reflections for students exploring tech, innovation, and early career pathways.
Across four sessions, you'll hear from professionals about navigating unexpected career turns, preparing to enter the workplace with more confidence, finding your place in tech, and building your CV and portfolio.
The Map I Didn't Plan
4 Nov 2026 8:00–9:00 pm SGT
Hear about unexpected career turns, moments of uncertainty, and finding the confidence to choose a new direction.
Speakers
- Heidi Herre Head of International Merchant Services, WorldFirst (UK)
- Silvia Rodrigues Cams Chief Compliance Officer LATAM, Ant International (Brazil)
Room Full of Men
5 Nov 2026 3:00–4:00 pm SGT
An honest conversation about navigating male-dominated workplaces, making your voice heard, and supporting other women along the way.
Am I Even a Tech Person?
10 Nov 2026 6:00–7:00 pm SGT
Explore where your interests and strengths could fit into tech, including paths you might not have considered.
Speakers
- Yangge Sun Product Manager, ANEXT Bank (SG/SEA)
- Agnes Basteart Head of Global Affairs and Strategic Development, Ant International (Belgium)
CV & Portfolio
11 Nov 2026 11:00 am–12:00 pm SGT
Learn how to recognise the value of your experiences and communicate your skills through a CV and portfolio that tell your story.
Speakers
- Li Jin Sophia Head of Antom, Product Manager, Americas (USA)
- Alanda Kong Backend Engineer, Ant International (MY/SEA)
Attend all 4 sessions and receive a digital certificate.
Register for the Global Virtual HotseatsBuildathon
AntSpark Malaysia Buildathon
Build an AI-powered website with ChatGPT Sites, meet mentors from Ant International, and explore where your ideas could go next.
This event is open to Malaysia-based participants, including:
- Current college and university students, including diploma, degree, Masters, and PhD students
- Post-SPM students exploring their next step
- Recent university graduates within 12 months of graduation
- Build an AI-powered website using ChatGPT Sites
- Work in a team of 2-4 participants
- Get guidance from Ant International mentors
- Learn how to shape an idea into a clear, useful solution
- Present what your team built at the end of the session
More information coming soon.
- 1st place: USD 5,000 in OpenAI API credits per team
- 2nd place: USD 3,000 in OpenAI API credits per team
- 3rd place: USD 2,000 in OpenAI API credits per team
Standout teams and individuals may have the opportunity to be considered for internship opportunities with Ant International.
Buildathon Resources
Everything you need to know before build day.
Full challenge statements will be revealed on the day of the buildathon.
Build a simple site that helps a young Malaysian, or someone you care about, take one useful next step.
Theme 1 AI that helps people think better
Theme 2 Fairer access, fuller participation
Theme 3 Better paths to learn, work and earn
Theme 4 Confidence with everyday money
Theme 5 Healthier minds and stronger connections
All times are Malaysia Time (MYT, UTC+8).
| 9:30–10:00 am | Registration Participant and mentor check-in; team allocation |
|---|---|
| 10:00–10:05 am | Kick-off Speech Ant International Foundation representative |
| 10:05–10:15 am | Welcome Remarks Ant International representative |
| 10:15–11:00 am | Career Fireside Chat Women in technology share their career journeys |
| 11:00–11:10 am | Keynote Speech MOHE representative (Guest of Honour); photo |
| 11:10 am–12:00 pm | Live Demo and Guided Build-along Challenge briefing; every participant ships a first change live |
| 12:00–2:00 pm | Lunch and Friday Prayers |
| 2:00–3:30 pm | Team Build Teams build their prototypes with mentor support |
| 3:30–5:00 pm | Showcase Teams present their solutions to the judging panel |
| 5:00–5:20 pm | Judges' Deliberation and Networking |
| 5:20–5:30 pm | Award Ceremony and Group Photo Recognition of winning teams and closing remarks |
Please refer to these resources on how to build using ChatGPT Sites.
Contact
Ready to build with AntSpark?
Questions about registration, workshops, speakers, or the buildathon? Reach out and we will help you find the right next step.
Email us