Pakistani Girls Shine Bright, Win Global Title at Int’l Women’s Day Techathon 2025
Team Futuristan from Pakistan wins big at Teens in AI’s Global Techathon, inspiring the next generation of women in tech.
ISLAMABAD: In a proud moment for Pakistan, Team Futuristan, led by Mahroosh Umer and Maryam Farhan, was declared the global winner of the prestigious International Women’s Day Global Techathon Campaign 2025, organised by Teens in AI in partnership with Sage Foundation and Red Hat.
The annual campaign, focused on empowering teens aged 12 to 18 to tackle real-world problems through AI and data science, saw nearly 2,000 participants from over 150 locations worldwide. This year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action’, emphasized driving meaningful change in tech and advancing diversity and inclusion.
Team Futuristan’s innovative project provided AI-based guidance and support for women undergoing menopause — a topic often overlooked — showcasing the team’s deep empathy, creativity, and technical brilliance.
The Pakistani contingent, mentored by Noorulain Zafer, CEO and Founder of Mind Works International, showcased not only technical skills but also the importance of using AI for social good. “This is a great WIN for Pakistan,” Noorulain said. “It highlights the power of hands-on learning and the critical need for diversity in tech.”
Maryam and Mahroosh shared their excitement: “This Techathon has been transformative. Working with peers worldwide taught us that diversity and teamwork are essential to creating solutions that can truly impact lives.”
Participants also attended global workshops on AI ethics, design thinking, and pitching — skills crucial for shaping a future where technology is inclusive and ethical. Delivered in 24 languages across 41 countries, this year’s Techathon broke barriers and inspired thousands to dream bigger.
Teens in AI’s Founder, Elena Sinel, stressed the urgency: “With women making up only 22% of AI professionals globally, accelerating action is critical. We must equip more girls to lead in the future of AI.”
With this victory, Pakistan’s young women have not only made their mark globally but have become a beacon of hope and inspiration for girls aspiring to careers in tech and AI.
