On March 26, 2026, Tirana will become a meeting point for everyone who wants to truly understand how Artificial Intelligence is transforming business, banking, and decision-making. Raiffeisen Bank Albania is organizing the event “Smells Like AI Spirit”, a one-day experience dedicated to learning, innovation, and practical competition in the field of AI.

This is the first event of its kind in Albania, not only within the banking and financial sector but also across industries, offering participants a hands-on and practical perspective on how AI can be applied to real business challenges. For the first time, Raiffeisen Bank Albania is opening this experience to applicants from outside the bank, offering free participation for all selected candidates.

From knowledge to action: Two parts, one complete experience

The event will take place at the Innovation Hub at the Pyramid in Tirana, from 09:00 to 18:00, and is designed in two integrated parts that guide participants from theory to practice. The first part, “AI Masterclass,” will be led by international experts and industry professionals. Participants will explore real-world applications of AI, concrete business and banking use cases, and the impact of artificial intelligence on decision-making and digital transformation. Seats are limited, and selected participants will be notified via email.

The second part, “Battle Royale,” is a practical competition where teams will work on real AI-driven business challenges. This segment invites participants to collaborate, think analytically and creatively, and test their skills in solving real-world problems.

Speakers with international experience and real impact

The event brings to Tirana three speakers who combine international expertise with strong local insight in AI, data, and innovation.

Aditi Subbarao, a leader at Snowflake focusing on data innovation in financial services, works with global banks and fintech companies in the fields of AI, machine learning, and intelligent automation. Known as a TEDx speaker and keynote presenter, she brings a practical and inspiring perspective on how technology can transform business.

Renato Rocha Souza, Director of the AI Center of Excellence at Raiffeisen Bank International, leads advanced developments in AI, machine learning, and natural language processing (NLP) within the banking sector. With academic and research experience across Europe and Brazil, he is a key voice in promoting the responsible and practical adoption of AI in large organizations.

Klaus Coka, a software and AI engineer at Raiffeisen Bank Albania, leads the bank’s AI platforms and is well known for his participation in international hackathons and technology competitions. He brings the perspective of a builder who turns ideas into practical, scalable solutions.

Who is this event for?

“Smells Like AI Spirit” is open to Master’s students in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, and related fields, as well as young professionals and tech-oriented talents who want to gain practical experience and understand how AI is applied in real business environments.

Concrete benefits for participants

Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Develop technical and analytical skills through real AI use cases

• Build a professional network with industry experts and peers

• Receive mentorship from experienced professionals

• Earn a certificate of participation

Winning teams will also receive cash prizes:

• €1,500 for first place

• €1,000 for second place

• €500 for third place

AI won’t wait. Neither should you.

This event is an open invitation for anyone ready to move from curiosity about AI to its practical application. “Smells Like AI Spirit” is not just an event, but an experience designed to inspire the next generation of professionals and innovators in Albania, connecting them directly with real industry practices and opportunities.