From dreaming of crutches to building them

"I never thought I would manufacture items which I wished I had in my childhood. " Birhanu Simon

When he was six, Birhanu faced Polio. Growing up in Wolaita Sodo, he often dreamt of the tools he needed—like better crutches. Now 32, a husband, and a father, he’s not just dreaming anymore.

After earning his drawing diploma, Birhanu started a small metalwork business. Last year, training through the EDI-led SEED program reignited that childhood vision. He didn’t just gain skills; he found the confidence to make a bigger leap.

Birhanu already had the determination, but the SEED program gave him the business know-how. He spent three days in an EBMS training at Sodo Polytechnic College. This wasn't a quick course; it was followed by mentorship, access to finance, and help with market connections. This comprehensive support system is what helped him grow his mini metal workshop into something much larger.

The biggest change? He didn’t just expand; he deliberately added a focus on producing special needs materials like crutches and walkers. He is now manufacturing the very items he once wished he had.

Birhanu's business isn't just growing its capital; it’s building a community. Thanks to the support from the SEED program, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, Birhanu has created five new jobs. And the best part: two of those jobs went to people with disabilities.He’s not only manufacturing essential equipment but also proving that talent and potential have no limits. Birhanu is an aspiring entrepreneur, happy to serve the community of Wolaita Sodo.

Birhanu’s journey is driven by a deep personal connection to his work. “I never thought I would manufacture items which I wished I had in my childhood,” he says. That simple, honest feeling fuels his work every day. He is genuinely happy—happy to expand, happy to hire others, and happy to serve a need he understands firsthand. Birhanu shows that great business comes from solving real-life problems.

Birhanu’s success story—expanding his business and creating five jobs (including two for people with disabilities)—is a powerful example of what focused support can do. This wouldn't be possible without the great partnership between EDI and the Mastercard Foundation on the SEED program. We don’t just offer training; we offer a path to independence and community impact.