I’m Paula M. Farmer, and if there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s this: I’ve made it my life’s work to empower people to lead with purpose and transform their worlds.
Growing up in a loving family, I was immersed in an environment that deeply valued education and fostered an insatiable curiosity for knowledge. My father, a self-made entrepreneur, showed me what dedication, hard work, and service to others truly meant. I didn’t realize it then, but watching him build his dreams while lifting others along the way shaped my vision for leadership.
As I navigated school and later the workforce, I discovered my passion for bringing order to chaos—whether through organizing, planning, or creating systems that helped others succeed.
But beyond the technical skills, it became clear that my greatest joy was serving others and helping them unlock their potential.
Some of my most rewarding milestones came from stepping into unfamiliar territories and embracing challenges. Becoming the only civilian certified at a military facility wasn’t just an honor—it was a lesson in boldness, growth, and the power of asking for what you need to succeed. Similarly, receiving the Malcolm Baldrige Award wasn’t just a career highlight; it was a testament to the impact of excellence, intentionality, and the commitment to zero defects in both work and relationships. Through every experience, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about titles or accolades—it’s about living out your values, serving others with integrity, and inspiring transformation wherever you go. That’s what I strive to do every day, and it’s what I hope to help you achieve too.
Bookings
When you bring Paula M. Farmer to your event, you’re not just booking a speaker—you’re inviting a storyteller, a motivator, and a partner in transformation. With over 25 years of HR expertise and a deep passion for leadership development, Paula delivers more than just speeches—she creates experiences that inspire action and lasting change. From classrooms at a local HBCU, where she teaches entrepreneurial leadership, to the pulpit of her faith community of 20,000 members, Paula connects with audiences in a way that feels personal, intentional, and impactful. Her style is down-to-earth yet dynamic, blending wisdom and warmth to resonate with people from all walks of life.