Dear Holy Cross family,
My name is Layann Wardeh, and I am honored to serve as 2025-26 president of the University of Notre Dame’s Women’s Boxing Club, Baraka Bouts. This fall, we step into the ring for our 23rd annual tournament with a mission that extends far beyond competition: supporting Holy Cross education in Uganda.
| Event | Date | Location |
| Quarterfinals | November 5th, 2025, at 7:00 PM | Dahnke Ballroom, Duncan Student Center |
| Semifinals | November 11th, 2025, at 7:00 PM | Dahnke Ballroom, Duncan Student Center |
| Finals | November 18th, 2025, at 7:00 PM | Dahnke Ballroom, Duncan Student Center |
I warmly invite you to join us, whether in the crowd at Dahnke or by supporting our fundraising efforts, to cheer on my teammates as we box for something bigger than ourselves.
Baraka Bouts is more than a boxing club. Yes, we train hard, spar, and compete, but the heart of our mission is service. Every dollar we raise goes directly to help Holy Cross schools in Uganda expand access to education.
Two summers ago, I had the opportunity to spend eight weeks at St. Joseph’s Hill Senior Secondary School in Uganda through the University of Notre Dame. I taught classes, worked alongside teachers, and spent countless hours with students—students who inspired me every single day. What struck me most was the energy and ambition of the students. In classrooms, during after-school clubs, and on the sports fields, I saw their eagerness to learn, lead, and build community. Their drive reminded me why our fundraising matters. It’s investing in students who are already working hard to create a better future for themselves and for their communities.
These students dream of becoming engineers, doctors, and teachers. Their resilience reminded me that education is not something to be taken for granted. Our club’s fundraising helps provide safe dormitories, quality facilities, and expanded opportunities so they can pursue those dreams with confidence.
This year, our goal is to raise $75,000 to finish the construction and fully furnish the new women’s dormitory at Holy Cross Lake View Senior Secondary School. This project will provide hundreds of students with safe housing and the space to focus fully on their studies and growth.
When we step into the ring this November, we carry those students’ dreams with us. Every round we fight, every cheer in the crowd, and every donation made is a direct investment in their futures.
Leading this club has been the most meaningful part of my Notre Dame journey. Week after week, I train alongside incredible women who give their strength, courage, and perseverance to this mission. We are united not just by boxing, but by the belief that our effort here can change lives across the world.
I hope you’ll join us this fall. Come witness the spirit of Baraka Bouts— not only the thrill of competition, but the joy of service.
With gratitude,
Layann Wardeh
President, Baraka Bouts 2025-26
Provided by the Holy Cross Mission Center, October 2025
