The WBDC Turns 40. Explore 40 Years of Impact

Marleen Julien

Founder and CEO, Creole Solutions

Welcome to our WBE Spotlight Series! Today, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Marleen Julien, Founder and CEO of Creole Solutions. Join us as we delve into Marleen’s entrepreneurial journey and uncover the driving force behind her success in the language services industry.

What inspired you to start your own business?

My inspiration to start my own business was deeply rooted in my desire to harness the rich Haitian language and culture for economic development. I saw an opportunity to not only celebrate our heritage but also to create a platform where it could be a driving force for growth and opportunity, both within the Haitian community and beyond.

What is a business milestone or achievement that you are most proud of?

The business milestone I’m most proud of is having created over 50 jobs for professionals in Haiti. This achievement not only signifies the growth and impact of our operations but also underscores our commitment to economic development within the Haitian community. By providing meaningful employment opportunities, we’ve been able to contribute positively to the lives of many individuals and their families, reinforcing the value of Haitian talent and culture in driving forward our business objectives. This milestone reflects our dedication to making a significant and sustainable difference in Haiti.

What challenges have you faced as a woman business owner, and how did you overcome them?

Facing challenges as a woman business owner, I learned the importance of balance to avoid burnout. Initially, I pushed too hard to prove myself, but found success in setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care. Not working too hard and maintaining a healthy work-life balance became key to my resilience and long-term success.

What advice would you give to aspiring women entrepreneurs?

Believe in yourself, seek out mentors and a supportive community, and remain adaptable to change.

Creole Solutions

Creole Solutions has dedicated over a decade to breaking down language barriers between organizations and Haitian communities. For more than 10 years, this pioneering company has championed universal language access, providing essential communication services that enable effective engagement with Haitian populations. Through strategic social media initiatives, Creole Solutions actively promotes Haitian culture and language, creating meaningful connections that bridge cultural divides. Their expertise extends beyond mere translation to comprehensive cultural interpretation, helping clients understand nuanced contexts while fostering greater inclusion and community understanding. As trusted language advocates, Creole Solutions continues to empower organizations to build authentic relationships with Haitian communities through culturally responsive communication strategies.

Believe in yourself, seek out mentors and a supportive community, and remain adaptable to change.