EXCLUSIVE: Shannon Elizabeth Finds “Soulmate” in South Africa After Life-Changing Move to Pursue Wildlife Conservation—How Meeting Her Husband Simon Borchert Changed Everything!

Shannon Elizabeth, known for her breakout role in American Pie, has always been deeply passionate about animal rights and wildlife conservation. But in a stunning turn of events, Elizabeth revealed that her love for animals not only shaped her career but led her to find true love with conservationist Simon Borchert. The couple, who are both committed to saving endangered species and protecting the environment, have worked together on the Shannon Elizabeth Foundation, a charity that fights rhino poaching and works to preserve wildlife across Africa.

In an exclusive interview, Elizabeth opened up about how this unexpected journey changed her life both personally and professionally. What started as a pursuit of her passion to help animals became a mission that transformed her worldview—and her heart.

A Life-Altering Move: From Hollywood to South Africa

In 2014, Elizabeth made a life-changing decision to leave Hollywood and focus on animal conservation in South Africa. Though she had spent decades in the entertainment industry, Elizabeth knew that her true calling was in conservation. The more she learned about rhino poaching and the ivory trade, the more she felt the pull to make a difference.

It was during this time that she first visited South Africa, where she learned about the severe threats facing wildlife and the dire need for global attention and action. Elizabeth was particularly struck by the widespread poaching of rhinos, whose horns are highly valued on the black market.

“I went to South Africa and everything just clicked,” Elizabeth shared. “I saw how urgent the situation was, and I knew I had to get involved. It wasn’t just about helping animals; it was about protecting entire ecosystems and making a real impact on the future of the planet.”

Her trip marked the beginning of her dedication to conservation, and soon, the Shannon Elizabeth Foundation was born. This nonprofit organization focuses on animal protection, wildlife education, and advocacy, particularly around the endangered rhino species in Africa.

The Encounter with Simon Borchert: Finding Her Soulmate

While her mission in South Africa was gaining traction, Elizabeth never expected that it would also lead her to find the love of her life. Enter Simon Borchert, a fellow conservationist based in Cape Town who has spent his life working to protect wildlife and preserve the natural beauty of Africa. Borchert, whose family has been deeply involved in conservation efforts for generations, shares Elizabeth’s passion for preserving endangered species and protecting the environment.

The two met when Elizabeth traveled to South Africa on one of her charity missions. After their initial meeting, their connection grew stronger as they found common ground in their shared vision for wildlife preservation. Their love blossomed naturally as they worked together on various conservation initiatives.

“We just clicked,” Elizabeth said with a smile. “Simon grew up in conservation, and his passion for it is contagious. We were both doing similar work, but when we came together, it felt like everything aligned. He made it so much easier for me to settle into this world because he’s been doing it for so long.”

Their connection wasn’t just professional—it was personal. Borchert, who speaks Afrikaans, became an essential part of Elizabeth’s adjustment to life in South Africa. He helped her understand the culture and navigate the complexities of conservation work in a country that has become a global focal point for wildlife protection. “He made everything so much easier,” Elizabeth shared. “Not only did he show me the ropes, but he also made me feel at home.”

Living and Working Together: Building a Life in South Africa

Today, Elizabeth and Borchert live together in South Africa, working side-by-side to run the Shannon Elizabeth Foundation. Their shared mission and love for wildlife have brought them closer as a couple and as partners in life’s most meaningful work. The foundation, which has grown significantly in recent years, focuses on rhino protection, anti-poaching efforts, and raising awareness about the illegal ivory trade.

Their home is also a base for their work. They live on a farm in the Cape Town area, where they work tirelessly to protect rhinos and other endangered species. The couple’s passion for their work is reflected in every aspect of their daily lives, from the field trips to the sanctuary, to the long hours spent planning future projects.

Elizabeth and Borchert often take trips to their wildlife sanctuary, located about an hour’s flight from their home. There, they work with rangers, take care of animals, and ensure that conservation efforts continue. “We’re not just sitting in an office; we’re out in the field, helping to make sure the rhinos are protected and cared for,” Elizabeth said. “When we’re out there, it feels like home. It’s where we’re meant to be.”

A Love for Each Other and the Planet

As Elizabeth continues to advocate for wildlife protection and environmental sustainability, her relationship with Borchert remains her anchor. The couple’s shared dedication to conservation work has deepened their bond, with their love for each other mirrored in their commitment to saving the planet. Elizabeth described Borchert as her “soulmate,” someone who shares her dreams and goals for the future. “We’re aligned in everything we want to do,” she said, “and I feel really lucky to have found him.”

But despite their shared mission and love for one another, Elizabeth’s focus remains on the work they do together. “It’s challenging, but it’s also rewarding,” she said. “We’re making a difference in the world, and we’re doing it together. That’s what makes it so special.”

Acting Career and the Foundation’s Future

Although Elizabeth’s primary focus is her foundation, she still manages to take on acting projects, occasionally booking roles and contributing to the Hollywood industry. She expressed how grateful she is for the platform her career in entertainment has provided, allowing her to raise awareness for the causes she cares about.

However, her charity work now takes precedence over her acting career. “I’ve started focusing on projects that help the planet first,” she shared. Elizabeth explained that her acting career allows her to fund the work she does with the foundation. “I don’t take money from the charity,” she explained. “I keep my career going to fund my mission.”

One such project Elizabeth is working on is a documentary about Munu, a male black rhino that requires special care due to his blindness. Munu’s story is a symbol of the challenges faced by endangered species and the urgent need for global conservation efforts. Elizabeth is using her experience in Hollywood to raise awareness about this issue, leveraging the power of storytelling to bring attention to wildlife conservation.

A Final Reflection: A Journey of Love and Purpose

As Shannon Elizabeth looks back on her journey—from American Pie to her life in South Africa—she realizes that her work with animals and conservation has brought her more fulfillment than anything else in her career. “If you can find something in your life that is both your job and your mission, that’s when you know you’re winning at life,” she said.

Her love for wildlife and the planet, paired with her dedication to making a difference, has defined her journey. But above all, it’s her relationship with Simon Borchert that has brought her the greatest joy. Together, they’re not just saving animals—they’re creating a life built on love, purpose, and shared dreams.