Thibault Duchemin & Ava: Where 1 & 1 = 3

The equation “1 + 1 = 3” might sound like an error in basic math.

But for Thibault Duchemin, the founder of Ava, this simple arithmetic fails to capture the profound potential of collaboration. 

His story isn’t just about adding technology to the lives of Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals; it’s about creating a new equation where inclusion, empathy, and innovation multiply the possibilities—where 1 & 1 = 3 becomes a reality.

Thibault’s story began in a Deaf family, where he was the only hearing member. From an early age, he became the bridge between his family and the hearing world—a role that demanded more than just linguistic translation. He navigated medical appointments, banking interactions, and everyday conversations, often stepping in as the sole communicator in critical situations. These formative experiences revealed the stark limitations of existing assistive technologies and illuminated a profound need for a more inclusive, effective, and affordable solution.

As Thibault pursued his master’s degree in engineering at UC Berkeley, his concern for his sister—a future lawyer—deepened. He was acutely aware of the barriers she would face in a profession where precise communication is essential. This concern became the catalyst for Ava—a revolutionary app designed to use real-time captioning to transcribe conversations, allowing Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals to engage more fully in group discussions.

Ava is more than just a technological innovation; it’s a manifestation of Thibault’s vision for a more inclusive society.

Unlike many startups that chase technological marvels, Ava’s mission is rooted in a genuine desire to enhance the quality of life for an often-overlooked community. It’s about transforming communication from a simple addition to a dynamic collaboration, making interactions richer and more human.

The need for such innovation is underscored by the global prevalence of hearing disabilities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 5% of the world’s population—approximately 430 million people—suffer from disabling hearing loss, including 34 million children. In the U.S., about 15% of adults report some level of hearing loss, often requiring interpreters or communication aids to navigate essential services like healthcare. The anticipated rise to nearly 2.5 billion people with some degree of hearing loss by 2050 further highlights the urgency of accessible communication solutions.

Ava’s real-time captioning technology has proven to be a game-changer in addressing these challenges. Real-time captioning tools have gained popularity for their effectiveness in improving communication in various settings, including live presentations and everyday interactions. Studies have shown that captioning significantly enhances comprehension and participation, making it a superior method compared to other communication aids.

The financial aspect also underscores Ava’s impact. Traditional interpreting services can be costly, with an all-day interpreter costing approximately $485. Ava offers a more affordable alternative through its subscription models, providing high-quality captioning at a fraction of the cost. This cost-effectiveness, coupled with Ava’s innovative use of AI and human scribes, positions the app as a valuable solution for users seeking accessible communication.

Ava’s growth trajectory further exemplifies its success. With a user base of 150,000 and significant funding milestones, Ava is not just a startup but a significant player in the accessibility space. 

Testimonials and case studies, such as those from the Santa Monica School District, highlight Ava’s effectiveness in educational settings, reinforcing its role in enhancing accessibility and communication for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.

What truly sets Ava apart is its focus on social impact alongside technological advancement. While many AI companies concentrate on developing the next big algorithm, Ava is dedicated to breaking down the communication barriers that have long separated Deaf and hearing communities. It’s not merely about what the technology can do, but about what it means for the people who use it.

Ava’s approach is a reminder that technology’s true potential lies not just in its capabilities but in its capacity to bridge gaps and foster inclusion. By integrating real-time captioning with a blend of AI and human oversight, Ava transforms the traditional model of assistive technology into something that genuinely enhances communication and reduces barriers. It highlights a shift from technology as a luxury to technology as a necessity for equitable participation in everyday life.

Ava is not just an app; it represents a new kind of connection and a reimagined approach to technology’s potential. 

Thibault Duchemin’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that when we embrace collaboration over simple addition, the results can indeed be extraordinary.