Samuel Semanda, a Hope International University junior studying Psychology, began playing soccer in Uganda at age 6…barefoot. Now 23, Semanda does not take anything for granted, even down to his cleats. Sam’s amazing journey from Africa’s dirt fields and makeshift soccer balls to HIU’s turf fields and regulation balls has made him deeply grateful for every opportunity he’s been given.

In a recent OC Register article, Semanda shares his uplifting personal story of how he took full advantage of those opportunities to further his education and passion for soccer in the United States.

After completing his undergraduate degree as well as a Master’s in Psychology at HIU, Sam plans to return to Uganda to counsel those in his hometown.

To read more on Semanda’s epic journey, click here.