Learning a new language can become a challenge. Many platforms and applications allow us to learn a second language. But the question is, can we claim fluency in the language? Emery, a Ukrainian startup, emerges as a beacon of innovation and dedication to learning English.
In an exclusive interview with Xtartup Bar, Roman Bielic, Chief Strategy Officer at Emery, said, “Ensuring our platform’s stability was our first battlefield. It’s like laying the foundation of a building; you need it to be rock-solid before you can think about scaling up.”
The team at Emery had to think outside the box to attract users in a highly complex market with many options. “We knew we had to stand out,” Bielic reflects. “It wasn’t just about building another language app; it was about creating a transformative learning experience.”
Source: Emery
Embracing an English-Only Environment
Emery focuses on using entertainment and thought-provoking content delivered by native speakers of English to ensure a better understanding of the language, culture, and traditions.
Dr. Mykhailo Korostelin, CEO and Co-Founder of Emery, with his extensive background in ESL teaching and pedagogics, developed a unique English learning methodology based on psycholinguistics, elaborates, “There’s a pervasive myth in language learning, suggesting it’s a light-hearted stroll rather than a challenging marathon. We aim to redefine that narrative.”
Emery is trying to change the narrative that learning a language is not a complex marathon but a light-hearted stroll. This can be achieved by providing authenticity and commitment to the learner’s journey.
“We understand that learning English is a cognitive and cultural adventure. Our job is to guide our users through this journey with genuine support and effective learning strategies,” Bielic asserts.
Source: Emery
Focusing on one language to empower people
Korostelin said they want to deliver the best possible experience and maintain the focus. This will empower people through the English language. The team also realizes a growing demand for English learning tools in underprivileged regions like Eastern Europe, South Asia, and South America. Traditional education often falls short of preparing individuals for the international job market in these areas.
The features of Emery
Emery’s app is divided into sections, each focusing on a specific theme or topic. Within these sections are classes covering grammar, vocabulary, phonetics, and more. Some of their innovative learning tools include:
- Interactive Video Dictionary: Users watch videos by native speakers explaining word definitions using humor, stories, body language, and facial expressions to build an emotional connection. The entire experience is an engaging one to make the mini-lesson a memorable one.
- Personalized Video Call Feedback: After each class, users engage in a 5-10 minute live video call with a native English speaker for valuable speaking practice and feedback. This also allows the student to get feedback on their progress and highlight areas for improvement, significantly improving their speaking confidence.
- Emery Video Challenges: The “Talk to Emery” feature takes learning outside the classroom with a creative twist. Users record and upload selfie-style video clips, which professional English teachers review to provide valuable feedback. This can help students enhance their English communication in personal, academic, or professional contexts.
- Word Check: This game-like feature helps users remember vocabulary through videos where hosts explain words without using the actual word. Users must choose the correct word from multiple-choice answers within a time limit. This approach lets the user remember the word and also use the words in the context of the real world.
Source: Emery
Emery is dedicated to affordable English education.
Emery offers its services through a cost-effective subscription model. Monthly subscriptions are expected to be around 5 euros for the basic plan and 15 euros for the premium plan. This pricing makes high-quality English learning accessible to users in low-income countries, further breaking down language barriers.
“Our vision for the future is clear,” Bielic shares. “We’re creating a platform where learning English is not just about language acquisition but career transformation and personal growth.”
Challenges and Triumphs
Emery acknowledges the challenges faced as a startup in the language learning industry. They aim to rebuild belief in attainable, life-changing English skills, striving to create a lasting, trust-based relationship with their users.
As Bielic said, “We aim to revive their belief that life-changing English is attainable and that we have the definitive solution to their language-learning needs.”
Source: Emery
Future Plans
Emery’s plans include incorporating AI-assisted learning and gamification techniques and fostering a supportive community of English learners. They are also working on implementing a peer-to-peer learning system, allowing motivated students to become teachers within the platform and potentially generate additional income.
Emery is not just a language-learning app. It’s a revolutionary approach to mastering English that’s affordable, engaging, and accessible. Emery’s mission is to empower people in the English-speaking world. With Emery, you’re not just learning English but experiencing it. Embrace the world without language boundaries with Emery’s revolutionary language learning platform. As the slogan of Emery says, “Let’s Emery the World!”
“At Emery, we believe that breaking language barriers should not be a luxury but a universal bridge to greater opportunities. Our commitment goes beyond teaching; it’s about opening doors, fostering connections, and nurturing growth. When we say ‘Let’s Emery the World,’ we invite everyone to join a movement where language unites us in our diversity and propels us towards shared success,” shares Bielic.
