Paula Mariwala

Paula Mariwala is a member of the GDI South Asia Board and the Founding Partner of Aureolis Ventures, a family office investing in innovative, impact-driven companies across technology, climate and health, with a gender and diversity lens. A pioneering early-stage investor and technology entrepreneur, she has been shaping India’s startup ecosystem since 2006, bringing deep expertise in venture investing, entrepreneurship and social impact.

Paula has built institutions and networks at the intersection of enterprise, education and impact. She was the founding Managing Director of Seedfund Advisors, one of India’s first early-stage venture funds, and is Founder-President Emeritus of Stanford Angels & Entrepreneurs India. Having previously led technology companies in India and the US, she continues to serve as Promoter Director of the Hinditron Group of Companies.

A committed philanthropic leader, Paula champions education, gender equality, human rights and the arts. She serves on the boards of Team4Tech, Indian School of Leadership, The Gender Lab, Edelgive Foundation, MakerBhavan Foundation and Katalyst India, and holds governance roles at KREA University and K J Somaiya College of Engineering. She has advised the SDG Philanthropy Platform India and the UN India Women Entrepreneurship Network. Her other roles include serving on the advisory board of Stanford University’s Centre for Human Rights and International Justice, Vice Chair of Stanford SEED, and a cultural ambassador for Asia Society in India.

Paula holds a master’s degree in Applied Physics from Stanford University and an undergraduate degree from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. She lives in Mumbai with her family and enjoys painting, poetry, being with nature and engaging with community and social issues.