In 2016, Paula founded the Academy of Entrepreneurs in Sydney, Australia, under the Ministry of Education, as the country’s first international entrepreneurship school.

Her vision was to revolutionize traditional education by embedding entrepreneurial skills into the learning process. Just 10 months after its launch, the Academy won DFAT’s International ALABC Business of the Year, highlighting its transformative impact on education and entrepreneurship.

Under her visionary leadership, the Academy of Entrepreneurs has flourished into a globally renowned institution, attracting students from over 140 nationalities and 30+ million students by 2022.

They now offer over 4,000 programs designed to serve a diverse audience, including high school students, university scholars, NGO professionals, and government officials. Through immersive, 100% practical, hands-on project-based workshops—taught exclusively by successful global entrepreneurs—the Academy equips its students, whom she affectionately calls "Legends," with the essential skills, strategic insights, and expansive networks needed to thrive and create meaningful, positive change in the world.



Let me share an example of our classes.

How do we test the first 30 minutes of our Social Entrepreneurship subjects?

We give our Legends 17 minutes to come up with 17 business ideas that address the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in groups of 4.

Then, we challenge them individually: “If you had 24 hours and $1 billion, which problem would you solve, why, and what are 10 business solutions you’d implement?”

And that’s it. In just 30 minutes, we see shining eyes, passionate energy, and laser-focused minds working to create impactful business ideas.



Paula’s work has earned her numerous accolades for her commitment to innovation and impact. She collaborates with governments, Fortune 500 companies, venture capital firms, and nonprofit organizations, shaping entrepreneurship education across multiple continents. She is particularly passionate about empowering underrepresented communities, including women, youth, and individuals from developing nations, to build sustainable businesses that drive economic and social change.

As a dynamic speaker and mentor, Paula inspires audiences with her practical insights and infectious energy. She is a regular keynote speaker at global entrepreneurship events, a mentor to aspiring founders, and a thought leader in the fields of social innovation and business education.

Paula’s entrepreneurial philosophy is simple: “Do what you love, and make the world a better place every day—and success is guaranteed to follow.” Through her relentless passion and innovative programs, she has not only redefined the landscape of education and entrepreneurship but also inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams with purpose. Her unwavering commitment to empowering others continues to create a lasting, transformative impact, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

At just 32 years old, Paula Mills was appointed as a diplomat and honorary consul—a role she embraces with immense pride and dedication. She volunteers her time and expertise in this capacity, leveraging her influence and passion to foster meaningful connections and drive positive change on a global scale. This prestigious position reflects not only her exceptional leadership but also her unwavering commitment to serving others and making a difference in the world.

These days, Paula travels to over 70 international destinations to present on stage, participate in panels, conduct media interviews, meet with top leaders to negotiate nation-scale contracts, collaborate with leading NGOs, and engage with more than 500 schools and universities.

Her secret to boundless energy? “Do what you love—and make sure you have strong Wi-Fi and coffee along the way!”