While many college students believe the appeal of studying abroad lies in partying and traveling far from parental restraints, West Seattle native Michelle Barker is using her time abroad in Northern Uganda to try and improve the lives of Ugandan society's most struggling.

The people of Northern Uganda continue to suffer after two decades of civil war in which the Lord's Resistance Army abducted young boys, forcing them to fight. Young girls were often forced to work as sex slaves, and many women were widowed. The armed conflict has had lasting, detrimental affects on all members of Ugandan society, but Baker was particularly compelled by the impacts felt by women.

"I would boldly say that each and every woman in Gulu has been emotionally or physically violated or abused," said Baker.

Now, with University of Colorado student Caitlin Long, Baker is attempting to establish a woman's soccer team in Gulu, Uganda. Both former players themselves, the two believe that soccer can spur positive empowerment and community building.

"We have personally witnessed the life that soccer brings into the lives of others," said Baker. "In the case of Northern Uganda, sports therapy is a common theme...regarding the reintegration of ex-combatants and children who have been abducted."

Baker said that the "fragile peace" taking place in Uganda today should serve as a opportunity to rebuild that community.

The two college students hope to establish a 22-player high school team, but lack materials and leadership. To first address the problem of limited resources, Baker has turned to her local community. She is hoping monetary donations will help purchase soccer balls cleats, uniforms, pennies, nets and cones. They also hope to provide clean drinking water during practices, which can be rare in Northern Uganda.

"How can I hear about what is going on around the world and isolate myself from learning more?" Baker said. "It is not enough for me to just sit back and give my sympathy and understanding for those going through every day struggles far worse than I can comprehend."

Baker attended Lafayette Elementary, Madison Middle School and West Seattle High School. She is currently working to complete her undergraduate degree at Seattle University. After college, she hopes to continue her humanitarian work in Africa.

To help support Baker's work in Uganda and establish a woman's soccer team for Gulu High School please contact her at bakerm1@seattleu.edu.