Shivon Zilis, born in 1986 in Markham, Ontario, Canada, is a prominent Canadian businesswoman and AI expert, widely recognized for her leadership roles in Neuralink and contributions to OpenAI. At 40 years old, she has established herself as a leading figure in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and venture capital, with an estimated net worth of $30 million.
Zilis’s professional journey spans prestigious organizations including IBM, Bloomberg Beta, and Tesla, highlighting her expertise in technology and innovation. While not married, she shares four children with tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, including twins Strider and Azure, daughter Arcadia, and son Seldon Lycurgus. Currently residing in Austin, Texas, Zilis continues to make waves in the tech world, balancing her executive responsibilities with her growing family. This article provides the latest news, key facts, and updates on Shivon Zilis in 2026.
Profile Summary
| Profile Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shivon Zilis |
| Date of Birth / Age | 1986 / 40 years old (2026) |
| Place of Birth | Markham, Ontario, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Education | Yale University – Economics & Philosophy |
| Profession | AI Expert, Businesswoman, Venture Capitalist |
| Current Roles | Director of Operations & Special Projects at Neuralink; Board Member at Shield AI |
| Notable Achievements | Forbes 30 Under 30 (2015), LinkedIn 35 Under 35 |
| Net Worth | $30 million (estimated) |
| Marital Status | Not married |
| Children | 4 children with Elon Musk: twins Strider & Azure (2021), Arcadia (2024), Seldon Lycurgus (2025) |
| Key Skills / Expertise | Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Venture Capital, Tech Innovation |
| Hobbies & Interests | Ice hockey (Yale goalie), fencing, AI research, mentoring startups |
| Current Residence | Austin, Texas, USA |
| Notable Media Coverage | Highlighted for AI work, Neuralink projects, and family life with Elon Musk |
Early Life and Education
Shivon Zilis was born in 1986 in Markham, Ontario, Canada, to an Indian mother and a Canadian father. As an infant, she was placed with adoptive parents and grew up in Canada, where she spent her childhood surrounded by a supportive family environment. Zilis attended Unionville High School in Markham, where she excelled academically and developed a strong interest in sports.
After high school, she enrolled at Yale University, graduating in 2008 with degrees in economics and philosophy. During her time at Yale, Zilis was a standout athlete, serving as a goaltender for the Yale women’s ice hockey team. She achieved remarkable success on the ice, becoming the school’s all-time leader in goals-against average, showcasing her dedication, discipline, and competitive spirit from an early age.
Career Journey
Shivon Zilis began her professional journey at IBM in New York, where she worked in financial technologies, focusing on projects in developing countries such as Peru and Indonesia. Her early exposure to global business challenges and emerging technologies laid the foundation for her future in innovation and AI.
In 2012, Zilis became a founding investor and partner at Bloomberg Beta, a venture capital fund backed by Bloomberg L.P. There, she specialized in machine intelligence, supporting startups and early-stage companies that leveraged artificial intelligence and advanced technologies.
From 2017 to 2019, she joined Tesla, contributing to the Autopilot product and chip design team, helping advance the company’s self-driving technology. Around the same time, she took on leadership roles at Neuralink, serving as director of operations and special projects, where she focused on brain-computer interface development.
Zilis also played a key role at OpenAI, serving on the board of directors until 2023 and influencing major initiatives in artificial intelligence research. In 2023, she joined the board of Shield AI, a defense technology company leveraging AI for military aircraft and autonomous systems, continuing her trajectory as a leader in advanced technology and innovation.
Major Achievements and Awards
Shivon Zilis has earned widespread recognition for her contributions to technology, venture capital, and artificial intelligence. In 2015, she was featured on Forbes’ prestigious 30 Under 30 list in the venture capital category, highlighting her early impact as a leading investor and innovator.
She was also named among LinkedIn’s 35 Under 35, acknowledging her influence and professional accomplishments in the tech and AI sectors. Beyond these accolades, Zilis has consistently been recognized for her work in machine intelligence, AI research, and innovative technology projects, earning a reputation as one of the most promising and forward-thinking leaders in Silicon Valley and beyond.
Her achievements reflect not only professional excellence but also her commitment to advancing cutting-edge technologies that shape the future of AI and human-computer interaction.
Personal Life
Shivon Zilis has garnered public attention for her relationship with Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX. The couple quietly welcomed twins, Strider and Azure, in 2021, followed by their daughter Arcadia in 2024, and their son Seldon Lycurgus in 2025. The children were conceived via in vitro fertilization (IVF), with Musk personally offering to be the sperm donor, reflecting their shared vision of having a family.
Zilis has publicly expressed support for Musk on social media, defending him during controversies, including his statements on California’s COVID-19 lockdowns. Despite past media speculation, she has maintained a professional and private approach to their family life.
She has also navigated co-parenting with Grimes, one of Musk’s former partners. After initial misunderstandings regarding access to the children, Zilis and Grimes reconciled, fostering a respectful relationship to ensure their children can interact and grow up in a supportive environment.
Latest Updates in 2026
As of 2026, Shivon Zilis continues to make significant strides in the world of technology and artificial intelligence. She remains a key executive at Neuralink, overseeing special projects and operations that advance brain-computer interface technology. In addition, Zilis actively contributes to AI research and innovation, advising startups and tech initiatives focused on machine intelligence and automation.
This year, she also continues her role on the board of Shield AI, supporting the development of AI-driven defense technologies and autonomous systems. Zilis has made several public appearances at AI and tech conferences, sharing insights on ethical AI, future technologies, and human-machine collaboration.
Media coverage in 2026 has highlighted her dual role as a tech leader and mother of four children with Elon Musk, emphasizing her ability to balance high-profile professional responsibilities with family life, while remaining a prominent figure in discussions around AI innovation and Silicon Valley leadership.
Fun Facts / Lesser-Known Facts
Shivon Zilis is not only a tech leader but also an accomplished athlete. During her time at Yale University, she was the goaltender for the women’s ice hockey team, setting the school record for goals-against average. She also explored fencing, showcasing her competitive spirit and love for challenging sports.
Beyond athletics, Zilis is known for her curiosity and analytical mindset, traits that have helped her excel in AI and venture capital. She enjoys exploring emerging technologies, supporting startups, and mentoring young innovators in the tech space.
Zilis is also committed to philanthropy and social initiatives, particularly in areas related to AI ethics, education, and technology accessibility. Her efforts reflect a strong belief in leveraging innovation to positively impact society while advancing responsible and transformative technological progress.
Final Thoughts
Shivon Zilis has established herself as a remarkable figure in the worlds of artificial intelligence, venture capital, and technology innovation. From her early career at IBM and Bloomberg Beta to leadership roles at Tesla, Neuralink, and Shield AI, she has consistently demonstrated vision, expertise, and a commitment to advancing transformative technologies. Her recognition on Forbes 30 Under 30 and LinkedIn 35 Under 35 reflects her influence and impact in the tech industry.
On a personal front, Zilis has drawn attention as the mother of four children with Elon Musk, balancing her high-profile professional life with family responsibilities. Her thoughtful public statements and co-parenting efforts highlight her dedication to both her career and her children.
Looking ahead in 2026, Shivon continues to shape the future of AI, brain-computer interfaces, and tech innovation, making her one of the most inspiring leaders in Silicon Valley. Her work promises to influence not only the next generation of technology but also the broader conversation around ethical and responsible AI development.
FAQ’s
Who is Shivon Zilis?
Shivon Zilis is a Canadian businesswoman, AI expert, and executive at Neuralink. She is known for her work in artificial intelligence, venture capital, and her connection to Elon Musk as the mother of four of his children.
How many children does she have with Elon Musk?
Shivon Zilis and Elon Musk share four children: twins Strider and Azure (2021), daughter Arcadia (2024), and son Seldon Lycurgus (2025).
What is her role at Neuralink?
Zilis serves as director of operations and special projects at Neuralink, focusing on advancing brain-computer interface technology and overseeing key company initiatives.
Where did she study?
She attended Yale University, graduating in 2008 with degrees in economics and philosophy, while excelling as a goaltender on Yale’s women’s ice hockey team.
What awards has she received?
Shivon Zilis has been recognized on Forbes 30 Under 30 (venture capitalists, 2015) and LinkedIn 35 Under 35, highlighting her achievements in AI, venture capital, and technology innovation.
