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.

01

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.

02

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.

03

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 logo

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 logo

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 finding your place in tech, navigating unexpected career turns, building your CV and portfolio, and preparing to enter the workplace with more confidence.

Session 1

Am I Even a Tech Person?

Date: Coming soon

A personal discovery session for students wondering whether they belong in tech, and how to recognise their own strengths, interests, and possibilities.

Luma link coming soon
Session 2

The Map I Didn't Plan

Date: Coming soon

A career navigation session about unexpected paths, nonlinear journeys, and thoughtful career decisions.

Luma link coming soon
Session 3

CV & Portfolio

Date: Coming soon

A practical session on presenting your experience, projects, and potential clearly.

Luma link coming soon
Session 4

Room Full of Men

Date: Coming soon

A session on confidence, presence, and navigating professional spaces where you may not always see yourself represented.

Luma link coming soon

Buildathon

AntSpark Malaysia Buildathon

Build an AI-powered website with ChatGPT Sites, meet mentors from Ant International, and explore where your ideas could go next.

Who Can Join

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
What to expect
  • 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
Participant Perks

More information coming soon.

Prizes
  • 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.

Challenge Statements

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

Tentative Programme
9:30am - 10:00amRegistrationParticipant and mentor check-in, team allocation
10:00am - 10:15amKick Off Speechby Xueqiu He, Shirley - HR Director, Ant International Malaysia
10:15am - 10:30amOpening Remarks
10:30am - 11:00amCareer Fireside ChatHear from women in tech at Ant International as they share their career journeys and perspectives on building meaningful careers in the technology industry.Panel Speakers:
Evan Gao - CTO, Ant International Malaysia
More speakers to be updated soon.
11:00am - 12:00pmLive Demo and Guided Build-along
12:00pm - 2:30pmLunch break
2:30pm - 4:00pmTeam Build
4:00pm - 4:40pmShowcase
4:40pm - 5:00pmJudges' Deliberation and Participant Networking
5:00pm - 5:15pmAward Ceremony and Group Photo

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