Why the millionaire co-founder of e.l.f. Cosmetics left his beauty empire to become a Catholic priest
Why Scott Vincent Borba, e.l.f. Cosmetics Co-Founder, Became a Catholic Priest
Why the millionaire co founder of e - Scott Vincent Borba, the millionaire co-founder of e.l.f. Cosmetics, made an unexpected decision to leave his thriving beauty empire and embrace a life of religious service. This transformative journey from entrepreneurial success to spiritual vocation highlights the profound influence of personal values and faith on career choices. As one of the co-founders who helped build the brand into a global phenomenon, Borba’s story offers a compelling narrative about the intersection of wealth, purpose, and divine calling.
Early Life and the Seeds of a Spiritual Calling
Scott Vincent Borba was raised in a devout Catholic family in Visalia, California, where faith was a central part of his upbringing. From a young age, he exhibited a deep curiosity about spirituality, though his path diverged as he pursued a life of ambition in Los Angeles. For years, he immersed himself in the fast-paced world of entertainment and business, working multiple jobs to support himself while chasing the American dream. His early years were marked by a relentless drive to achieve success, often at the expense of his spiritual roots.
The Breaking Point: A Father’s Final Days
Borba’s life took a dramatic turn when his father, Anthony Borba Sr., was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Returning home to care for his father, he found himself balancing the demands of work with the emotional toll of his father’s illness. "I never saw my father scared before. He said, 'I need to close out my life before I go. Will you help me with that?'" Borba recounted, emphasizing the pivotal moment that reshaped his priorities. His father’s passing in 2010 became a catalyst for introspection, prompting him to reevaluate his life’s direction.
"I always wanted more. It was never satisfying enough," Borba reflected, explaining his insatiable pursuit of success. "I couldn’t make enough money. I couldn’t be on enough red carpets. I couldn’t be exposed enough on TV or in magazines. It was insatiable."
During a particularly intense period of grief, Borba hosted a lavish party in his Hollywood Hills home to cope with his father’s death. But as he looked around at the excess, he felt a deep sense of emptiness. "I remember looking around. I was so unhappy," he shared. "I looked up to heaven and asked God to help me be the man he created me to be, but I couldn’t do it without his help." This moment of vulnerability marked the beginning of his spiritual awakening, leading him to seek a deeper connection with his faith.
From Entrepreneur to Priest: A New Mission
Borba’s decision to leave e.l.f. Cosmetics was not made lightly. After years of building a successful business, he donated his fortune to churches and charities, signaling his commitment to a life of service. His family, initially divided by his career choices, came together for his ordination ceremony, symbolizing a renewed sense of unity. "I felt so proud," his mother, Evelyn, shared, underscoring the emotional significance of his transformation. Borba’s first public Mass, held weeks later, became a milestone in his spiritual journey, reflecting his dedication to a new purpose.
While e.l.f. Cosmetics continued to thrive under its co-founders, Borba’s departure underscored the idea that material success can sometimes overshadow inner fulfillment. His story resonates with many who question whether their achievements align with their true values. By choosing the priesthood, he found a way to channel his passion into a life of compassion, community, and spiritual guidance, offering a powerful example of reinvention and purpose-driven living.
A Legacy of Faith and Entrepreneurship
Though Borba stepped away from the corporate world, his influence on e.l.f. Cosmetics remains undeniable. The brand, known for its affordable yet high-quality products, became a symbol of accessibility in the beauty industry. Borba’s journey from co-founder to priest, however, adds a unique layer to his legacy. His transition highlights how the pursuit of success can coexist with a desire for deeper meaning, and how a single event—such as his father’s illness—can lead to a life-altering change. For those wondering "why the millionaire co founder" of e.l.f. Cosmetics would choose a life of religious service, Borba’s story provides a poignant answer.