Meet our founder

Hi there! My name is Joy Donnelly and I am the founder of Joy Worldwide Inc. Travel has always been my passion. From a young age, I loved learning about other cultures. My parents fostered that interest by taking us to new places and encouraging us to try new experiences.

In February 2016, I embarked to Milan, Italy for a semester abroad. My first week, I was struck with culture shock. Frustrated, my mom encouraged me to lean into the newness and the unknown. Once I leaned in and said yes to going outside of my comfort zone, Milan became a wonderful adventure. I made some of the greatest friends and traveled to Italy, France, the Netherlands, Greece, Spain, and Germany. I left that experience hoping that one day I would return.

After my college graduation, I traveled to Thailand, Hong Kong, and Singapore. When I was in Hong Kong, I received an email that I was invited to interview for an International MBA program in Paris, France. I nervously did the interview, unsure of where the path would lead. I woke up the next morning to my acceptance email. I was headed to Paris!

Moving to Paris was one of the most difficult things I have ever done. However, it was two of the best years of my life. I truly fell in love with Paris. I formed lifelong friendships and traveled to England, Portugal, Spain, and Italy. I even started my marketing company, Brand Joy Marketing. The hard work, discipline, and perseverance that I learned in those years has followed me throughout my career.

Travel still remains close to me. I have worked in the travel industry since 2017, working for Global Jet Black, StampedTribe, AuPairCare, and my most recent role at American Express Global Business Travel.

Studying abroad was the catalyst that shifted my life. My hope through Joy Worldwide Inc. is to give others the same chance to experience the self-growth, joy, and transformation that studying abroad gave me. I am beyond excited to see how we are able to change lives and communities. Thank you for joining the mission!