My Path
I'm Joyful Clemantine Wamariya, an international author, strategic connector, and the visionary founder of 10HOUSES. My journey from Rwanda to the United States, spanning more than twenty countries, has given me a unique perspective on the power of human resilience and connection.
A defining moment came in 2006 when I reunited with my family on The Oprah Winfrey Show after 12 years apart. This profound "human family reunion," witnessed by millions, became the catalyst for my life's purpose. Since then, I've served on distinguished boards, pursued higher education, delivered speeches globally, and gained recognition as a voice for human connection
My New York Times bestselling memoir, The Girl Who Smiled Beads: A Story of War and What Comes After, offers an intimate window into this journey. More than a memoir, it's an invitation to humanity — to feel, reflect, and engage with a story of resilience that bridges past experiences with a vision for a more connected world. Through this work and my ongoing practice, I demonstrate how storytelling and genuine engagement can transform individual connections into collective strength.
Purpose As PRACTICE
Life presents both joys and challenges that test our connections to every layer of humanity. Through my experiences, I've learned the hard way that we are whole, well, and wealthy beings capable of standing together through any circumstance. Genuine communication and unwavering support strengthen all relationships—personal and professional alike. This isn't just philosophy—it's my daily practice. In every interaction, whether facilitating a workshop or having a one-on-one conversation, I create spaces where connections to self, loved ones, and community become a strong foundation for our exchanges.