Meet Elizabeth Cherilus

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Elizabeth Cherilus. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Elizabeth , so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.

My environment built my confidence and self-esteem. I grew up in an area with not a lot of representation of the African American women outside of my family. Learning what beauty is to me, came from understanding the importance of differences, authenticity, and empowerment. Carving my own lane from a new generational standpoint and a cultural aspect, I gained ann understanding of what “me” is to me. Not needing to fit into anyone’s box, I developed confidence and self-esteem within myself.
A big part of this story has been my mental health journey. (And I say journey because it’s a never ending road- that doesn’t have to be scary.) I found the importance of mental health through my own struggles with depression and anxiety. Those were barriers that felt undefeatable- but through practice (with and without a therapist), self- reflection, and trial and error, I developed and still continue to learn what works best for me.
One of my favorite pieces of my story with building confidence and self-esteem is working with children. They see the world in such an innocent way, that I started to think to myself, “when did I start to view the world differently?” Was it bills or expectations of others- either way I realized I was deserving and capable of this perspective. And BOOM another layer of confidence and self-esteem built. I was less stressed and overwhelmed when I built in the time to cater to my inner child.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I am recently married, early thirties, fun girly out of Eastern, PA. The rural area breed me well. I obtained my associates and bachelor’s degree proudly coming out of school with under 10k in debt. Through the 10year course of furthering my education, I worked for various nonprofit organizations from daycare work- therapeutic staff support- social worker for the elderly population to a family therapist. I wanted to bring all of my knowledge and education back to my hometown. I did that by starting a nonprofit organization Children Representing in the Culture- CRITC.inc. (The acronym is a double entendre; someone always has something to say- maybe in the form of a critique).

I began this organization in March 2024. We have had the pleasure of collaborating on a host of events, which matches one of our focal points- community collaboration. We have a motto, “Collaboration Over Competition.” We hosted a basketball camp titled, “Books and Basketball” with Real Estate of Mind Ent. Through this camp, kids from our area and surrounding areas of Easton and P-Burg, they were provided information on self care that included stretching (physical attention to the body) and flexibility moves before enjoying various basketball activities and a segment on financial literacy and understanding that you’re never too young to learn about equity and real estate. Afterwards, they relaxed while enjoying food, drinks and browsing through book donations. Each child was able to take home any book selection of their choice.

Another event we did was Art in the Park, which was a huge success! CRITC.inc put a lot of hard work into making this event happen, and the outcome was truly beautiful. It was our first solo event, and it brought families together in a fun and engaging way, allowing them to participate in art activities in a park setting. It offered numerous benefits, such as fostering creativity, strengthening family bonds, and encouraging outdoor recreation.

What made this event special was how cost-effective it was, allowing families to have an enriching experience without financial barriers. At CRITC, we took pride in utilizing public spaces creatively, turning them into hubs for connection and cultural exchange. Our goal was not only to bring families together but also to promote community cohesion and create opportunities for learning.

This summer 2025, CRITC.inc is hosting an Untraditional Debutante Ball for boys and girls preparing to enter college or furthering their education. This event is designed to be a transformative experience, combining the elegance of a traditional ball with workshops that teach essential life skills.

Participants will learn about etiquette, financial literacy, music theory and creative expression, and personal maintenance—all skills that will serve them well as they transition into adulthood. This unique event is made possible with the support of small businesses and community leaders who are partnering with us to provide mentorship and resources.

The ball also serves a greater purpose: participants will fundraise for their education, gain new skills, and compete in a pageant-style day where they’ll have the chance to win scholarships and other prizes. It’s not just a celebration—it’s a powerful opportunity for these young people to prepare for their futures while fostering community engagement and support.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

One of the best qualities I think that was most impactful in my journey was my open-mindedness, knowing that my perception was based off of my scope of life, there’s so much more that exist beyond that scope. This helped me to develop a sense of being open to new experiences, especially when it came to traveling.
One of the best skills I think that was most impactful during my journey was learning that knowledge comes in all shapes and forms. There is a stigma with knowledge. It only comes from books. Yes, it comes from books, but also, from interactions, experiences, and new encounters. Pathways certain peoples lifestyles take them, can come in the forms of wisdom, which is also knowledge. It may sound a little philosophical, but there are some beautiful people on this earth who have lived challenging lives, beautiful lives, and if you could imagine the optimism that shines through these people, some would say this is beautiful irony. But I have also met people who let their trials and tribulations take the wins over their lives. Both stories can be as equally as insightful when you really think about it. To be able to learn from both types of individuals has been untraditional yet impactful skill I’ve gained on my journey.
Lastly, my ability to refocus has been impactful, looking back on my journey. Refocusing my attention on the task at hand took practice, especially when you have more than one focal point. I teach a workshop called the “Give and Take,” where we discuss how physical, mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual buckets all are different areas of our lives and sometimes they intersect. But I learned that each is deserving of its own space, so I became intentional and taught others how to do the same. There can be some tears and hugs during the workshop but the important part is to be honest with yourself, which can be scary for some people.. even me at one point. I had to learn that all my emotions are valid, but what to with them differentiates based on the feeling at hand.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

Absolutely! At CRITC.inc, based in the Lehigh Valley, PA, we are always looking to partner with individuals and organizations who share our passion for empowering Black and Brown youth and communities through representation, education, and opportunity. While we are rooted in the Lehigh Valley, we frequently travel to different communities and offer virtual engagement, making collaboration accessible no matter where you’re located.

We’re particularly seeking partners who are committed to advancing mental health advocacy, financial literacy, career development, education, arts, and cultural enrichment. Whether you’re a professional, business owner, educator, or artist who wants to sponsor a program, share expertise, or provide resources, we would love to connect.

If you’re interested in collaborating, please reach out to us at [email protected] or visit our website at https://www.instagram.com/critc.inc?igsh=MWE2azBpc2N4ZnV6&utm_source=qr and send us a message! Together, we can amplify representation and create meaningful opportunities with you in your town.

Contact Info:

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