Africa-Press – Eswatini. A 31 year old Jorge Martins is building more than just stoves ,he is rebuilding his life, one invention at a time. Based in Fairview North, Manzini, the welder and fabricator is living proof that with passion, purpose and perseverance, it is possible to turn pain into power.
Jorge was not born with a disability. 8 March 2013, while working at the Alliance Church in Mbabane, he suffered a life-altering injury that led to the loss of one of his leg. Although he never received compensation for the accident, he did not allow that to stop him. Instead, he adapted, using a prosthetic leg purchased by his late parents ,and decided to pursue a life of meaning and innovation.
“I have many challenges,” he says, “but the most difficult one was losing a leg. Even so, I push myself beyond limits because I have a son and dreams to live up to. I want to be a good example to him.”
Today, Jorge runs his own welding and fabrication business from home. His days are spent building energy-saving wood stoves, braai stands, indoor fireplaces, and other do-it-yourself (DIY) innovations that make life easier and more affordable for others. His products are especially popular among families and farmers looking for cheaper alternatives to electricity, particularly during the winter season.
“I create things that help people save electricity and keep their animals warm in cold weather, so they do not lose profit,” he explains. “It’s about helping others, that’s what drives me.”
Jorge’s dreams go far beyond metalwork. He is passionate about farming, particularly Boer goats, red Kalahari goats, and dairy goats, breeds known for their fast growth, multiple births, and high market demand. He has plans to expand into pig farming, fish farming, watermelon production, and even lavender cultivation.
“To me, these are billion-dollar ideas,” he says. “With the right resources, expert advice, and good money management, anyone can become successful in these areas.”
While his vision is bold, Jorge admits that saving money is one of his biggest challenges. “In this country, we face too many problems at once, and with little money, saving is hard. But I’ve been thinking about these goals for years.”
Despite the odds, Jorge remains hopeful. He describes his mind as “restless,” constantly thinking of new designs and solutions. For him, every new day is a chance to invent, improve, and inspire. “I just want to wake up and do something. I don’t want to waste the day feeling sorry for myself. I believe I’ll be something one day. I started with nothing, but I want to finish this mission. I feel like there’s a purpose in everything I’ve been through.”
Through his work, Jorge connects with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Many are inspired by his story, often asking what drives him or how he learned to build such useful inventions. “I tell them: just be yourself, find yourself, set a goal, and be disciplined enough to go through anything life throws at you. Turn that negativity into productivity.”
Jorge Martins is a reminder that success doesn’t come from avoiding hardship, but from choosing to rise despite it. In every stove he welds, every idea he tests, and every conversation he shares, Jorge is lighting a fire of hope, one that keeps going.
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