Bridging Language Divides Through Innovation and Passion: Interview with Alex Chernenko, Founder of Translit

A knack for technology and a curiosity for languages form the foundation of Alex Chernenko’s journey from his Ukranian roots to becoming the CEO and Founder of Translit.

Translit is a trailblazing language service and technology company. It started in 2009 during a recession in Ireland and grew to become one of the largest language service providers. Chernenko’s passion for multilingualism and cutting-edge solutions led to the creation of Translit, and his story of resilience and unwavering determination continues to redefine the language industry.

Allow me to introduce Founder, Alex Chernenko…

So, who are you and what’s your business?

Ukraine native, living in Ireland for 20 years, passionate about languages and technology, CEO and Founder of Translit – a language service and technology company making the world a better place by removing language barriers and promoting understanding among people.

What is your backstory and what inspired you to come up with / pursue this idea?

I used to speak six languages and am good with computers. Two passions combined to start Translit.

Take us through the process of designing, prototyping, and manufacturing your first product or service- what was that like?

In 2019, we raised investment and built our first product (translit.com) to disrupt the interpreting industry by opening up our database of interpreters to the public. During the pandemic we launched a second product: a Remote Simultaneous Interpreting platform (rsi.translit.com). Served more than 500 events, 2m per min of usage and growing.

Describe launching the company… Where did you start?

Started in 2009 at the back of my house in Dublin with a pregnant wife at the worst time during the recession in Ireland. The company survived and grew to become one of the largest language service providers. Translit serves the biggest interpreting government contract. We have won 12 tenders in Ireland in the past 2.5 years.

You can also read my story here.

What has worked to attract & retain customers so far?

Tenders, attending events, SEO, Google ads, cold calling, email outreach.

What books, podcasts, or people have been the most influential on your journey?

My 2 favourite books: 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, From Good to Great.

How are things going today and what does the future look like?

2023 showed 3x growth compared to 2022. Expecting at least 2x in 2024.

Any advice for others who are just starting out?

I failed 9 times out of 10 before succeeding. So be prepared to fail, don’t give up, try again. Some of you can get lucky, but the very known ratio of 9 out of 10 will average out. Keep it in mind and just move on.

What’s the best way for people to connect and follow you? Website, Social Profiles, Etc…

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexchernenko
Twitter – https://twitter.com/chernko
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/alexchernenko/
I prefer email. But no spam, please. 🙂
For general sales and partnership inquiries – info@translit.com (my team will look after you)
For investors – admin@translit.com
For PR and Media inquiries – pr@translit.com

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She wanted to sell fancy throw pillows she was making.

I gave her very basic steps. Enough to get started (I don't know much about ecom).

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He would likely roll his eyes and argue that none of us should be too surprised, based on the actuarial tables, but we’ve lost one of the 20th century’s greatest investors and businessmen.

Chris and I…

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