As a child, Cinder would hear, "You're so pretty to be dark." She always accepted the words with a thank you and a smile, but even from that early age, she allowed the comment to define her. In addition to the comments about her skin tone, she developed a complex due to her name: Cinder Eller (meaning burnt ashes).

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She would occasionally ask why her parents would name her that - It's a fairytale name after all, and her life did not reflect one.

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Growing up in Inglewood, CA, her mother would always affirm and reiterate that she was beautiful. She nicknamed Cinder "DOLL" and instilled confidence in her at a young age. At 17, Cinder became actively involved in the church where she engaged with girls who admired, adored and gravitated towards her. 

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Cinder did not understand the magnitude of gratitude afforded her until a beautiful, young lady thanked her on social media for being a positive role model in her life. 

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It was that day she discovered her purpose in life was to become a MENTOR.

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For the past 30+ years, Cinder has continued to be a positive role model and mentor to many. She is committed to developing others and showing young girls and boys the same constant encouragement her mother showed her.

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Cinder's commitment to the development of people is what led her to the creation of The Glass Slipper; A Youth Foundation, L.A., which happens to be a spin-off of the name she grew to love, "Cinder Eller."