Scott-Vincent Borba, the co-founder of e.l.f. Cosmetics, is preparing to be ordained as a Catholic priest.
This transition marks a rare departure from the upper tiers of the U.S. beauty industry, as Borba intends to abandon a multi-billion-dollar luxury lifestyle for a life of religious service.
Borba founded e.l.f. Cosmetics in 2004 [1]. The company saw rapid growth in its early years, reaching $100 million in sales by 2014 [2]. Through the success of the brand, Borba amassed a personal fortune estimated at $3 billion [3].
In an interview with KGO, a CNN affiliate in California, Borba confirmed his path toward the priesthood. "I’m preparing to be ordained a Catholic priest," Borba said [4]. He said that his decision is rooted in a desire to devote his life to God and help others.
As part of this spiritual commitment, Borba intends to divest his wealth. "I want to give my fortune to charity and serve God," Borba said [5]. He said the process of leaving behind his previous lifestyle is a positive transformation.
"I have never been happier," Borba said [6].
Borba's shift from corporate leadership to the clergy involves a complete reversal of his professional trajectory. While he spent two decades building a global cosmetics empire, he now seeks a vocation centered on faith and philanthropy, rather than market share and profit.
“"I’m preparing to be ordained a Catholic priest."”
The decision by a billionaire founder to enter the priesthood highlights a significant act of philanthropy and personal renunciation. By donating a fortune of this scale, Borba may create a substantial impact on the charitable organizations that receive the funds, while his transition serves as a high-profile example of the 'great resignation' from corporate wealth in favor of spiritual pursuits.
