On March 26, 2026, Tirana will become a meeting point for everyone eager to understand how Artificial Intelligence is truly transforming business, banking, and decision-making. Raiffeisen Bank Albania is organizing “Smells Like AI Spirit”, a one-day immersive experience dedicated to learning, innovation, and hands-on 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 across industries, offering participants a practical, hands-on perspective on how AI is applied to real-world business challenges. For the first time, Raiffeisen Bank Albania is opening this experience to external applicants, offering free participation to all selected participants and inviting motivated talent to join its AI journey.
From Knowledge to Action: Two Integrated Experiences
The event will take place at Innovation Hub, Piramida, from 09:00 to 18:00 and is designed in two integrated parts that guide participants from learning to action.
The first part, the AI Masterclass, is an expert-led learning experience where participants will gain insights into real-world AI use cases, learn how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping business and banking, and hear directly from AI specialists and industry professionals. Seats are limited, and selected participants will be notified by email.
The second part, the Battle Royale, is a competitive, hands-on experience where participants will work in teams on AI-driven business challenges. This part encourages collaboration, creative thinking, and analytical problem-solving while applying innovation to real scenarios.
Speakers with International Experience and Real-World Impact
The event brings together three outstanding speakers who combine international experience with strong local expertise in AI, data, and innovation.
Aditi Subbarao, a financial services and data innovation leader at Snowflake, works with global banks and fintechs on data, AI, machine learning, and intelligent automation. A TEDx and keynote speaker, she is known for making complex ideas practical, inspiring, and action-oriented.
Renato Rocha Souza, Director of the AI Center of Excellence at Raiffeisen Bank International, leads advanced AI, machine learning, NLP, and data innovation across finance and banking. With a PhD in Information Science and strong academic experience in Europe and Brazil, he bridges rigorous research with real-world business impact and is a strong voice for responsible AI adoption.
Klaus Coka, a software and AI engineer at Raiffeisen Bank Albania, leads AI Platforms and is known for his hands-on approach to building scalable solutions. With experience across hackathons, bootcamps, and AI competitions, he brings the perspective of a builder who turns ideas into real products.
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-driven talents who want hands-on exposure to how AI is applied in real business environments.
What Participants Will Gain
Participants will develop technical and analytical skills through real AI use cases, build meaningful connections with industry professionals and peers, receive mentorship from experienced AI and business experts, and earn a participation certificate. Winning teams will also receive monetary awards, with €1,500 for first place, €1,000 for second place, and €500 for third place.
AI Won’t Wait. Neither Should You.
This event is a clear invitation to move beyond curiosity and start applying AI in real-life scenarios. “Smells Like AI Spirit” is more than just an event, it is an experience designed to inspire the next generation of AI-ready professionals and innovators in Albania, connecting them directly with real industry challenges.
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