Lama Ngawang Pema

• Co-Founder

• Staff

Lama Ngawang Pema (Lisa Antoniotti) is a dedicated practitioner of contemplative and spiritual healing, deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhist practice. Ordained by Domo Geshe Rinpoche in 2002, contributed to developing the organizational infrastructure of White Conch Dharma Center during its formative years from 2001-2008. She served as a past board president and acting Executive Director of White Conch. A dharma teacher in training since 2005, Pema is a Co-Founder of Joyful Path Meditation and Healing Center, offering a sacred space for individuals to explore their spiritual well-being. Her approach honors the profound connection between mind, body, and spirit, integrating spiritual wisdom with evidence-based techniques to support personal growth.

With over 20 years of experience in spiritual, corporate, and therapeutic settings, Pema holds a Doctor of Ministry in Strategic Leadership, Compassion, and Renewal from Claremont School of Theology, where she focused on meditation practices. She also has a Master’s in Adult Education with an emphasis on Human Services and Counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Cardinal Stritch University. Pema is certified in Autogenic Training and Yoga Therapy and holds professional counseling licenses.

Pema co-authored A Leap of Interfaith and recently completed a 14-month intensive meditation retreat. Her creative pursuits include crafting prayer beads and stoles and preparing for community celebrations. She integrates contemplative practices with cognitive-behavioral therapy, positive psychology, and mindfulness to help individuals develop emotional intelligence and resilience. Her work extends into prison settings, where she offers secular mindfulness programs and spiritual services, empowering clients and students to navigate their inner worlds with mindfulness and compassion.