About Us

Our Story

HUG YOSELF & LOVE YOSELF (HYLY) began as a journey of self-discovery. In 2019 our founder, Alissa Tillman found herself disconnected. “A HOT MESS” in her words. Feeling lost, she returned to her mother’s home to reset, in search of clarity, confidence and purpose.

During this season, something magical happened. Alissa began looking inward, opening a portal to an empowered way of living, feeling and being. While recording a YouTube video, the phrase “HUG YOSELF & LOVE YOSELF” unexpectedly flew out. It wasn’t rehearsed or planned, in that moment a powerful mantra and the foundation for her future sprouted.

Embracing HYLY meant letting go of her disempowering beliefs and habits. She replaced avoidance with journaling, validation seeking with mirror work, and began building a lifestyle filled with self care, mindfulness and connection. Although it was challenging she chose resilience as her power.

At first, Alissa thought HYLY would be a YouTube channel to share her journey. But as her inner world transformed, so did the vision for HYLY. It grew from a personal mantra to a larger mission, a commitment to helping young girls overcome the same challenges she had faced.

Today, through our workshops, mentorship and retreats, HYLY creates safe spaces for girls to grow, learn, and connect. We envision a world where girls release self doubt, embrace authenticity and choose resilience.

A world where every girl feels empowered to love herself.

Our Mission, Vision & Core Values

Empowering Girls Through Self Love and Sisterhood

Mission

Inspiring girls to release self doubt by embracing self love through mentorship and creative programming.

Vision

To Inspire Generations Of Girls To Step Into Their Power Through Self Love And Sisterhood, Creating A World Of Purpose Driven Women.

Acceptance

Embrace Who You Are Without Resistance.

Accountability

Own Your Growth and Learn From Every Lesson.

Action

Take Bold Steps To Create Your Dreams.

Board Of Directors

Meet The Board

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Alissa

Founder/CEO

Alissa is our Founder and CEO, specializing in helping girls build healthy self-esteem, a supportive environment, and a sense of purpose. Her personal journey from feeling lost and insecure to discovering the power of self-love fuels her passion for guiding young girls on their wellness journey.

As a certified Health and Life Coach, she provides guidance in personal growth, mindset shifts, and emotional well-being, helping girls develop confidence, resilience, and a deeper connection with themselves. Her coaching takes a holistic approach, addressing mental, emotional, and physical wellness to support long-term transformation.

Alissa has coached middle school and elementary school basketball and served as the president of teen organizations like the Black Student Union, furthering her commitment to mentorship and leadership.

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Tracy

Madame President

With a professional background spanning over 30 years, Tracy has successfully balanced entrepreneurship in the holistic field as a Massage Therapist and as a Real Estate professional. She currently holds a thriving career in Project Management with a major utility company. Her experience reflects a deep commitment to dedication, adaptability, and service.

As a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and daughter, Tracy brings a wealth of experience in relationship building and community engagement to her role as Madame President.

Tracy is deeply passionate about encouraging young girls to embrace their brilliance, unlocking their potential through knowledge, mentorship, and accountability She finds joy in reading, pampering herself with self-care, and spending quality time with friends.

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Kristen

Guardian of Generosity

With 25 years of experience in the insurance industry, Kristen has a keen eye for detail, a knack for assessing risk, and a strategic mindset that makes her a financial powerhouse.

Beyond her professional career, Kristen has dedicated years to coaching middle and high school club volleyball, mentoring young athletes to build confidence, resilience, and teamwork. She also empowers women through skin care, helping them cultivate confidence from the inside out.

Whether she’s volunteering in her community, hiking, traveling, practicing yoga, or spending time with loved ones, she brings joy, strength, and a can-do spirit to everything she does.

It's not your job to like me, It's mine.
Byron Katie

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Angela

Legal Luminary

As an attorney at The Muse Law Firm specializing in family law, Angela has more than 20 years of experience in negotiation, case strategy, and management. Growing up in a large family with supportive sisters, she understands the importance of sisterhood, collaboration, and strong family foundations.

Angela is passionate about supporting the development of young girls by encouraging them to be authentic, express their thoughts, and go after their dreams.

In her free time, she enjoys swimming, working out, walking along the beach, and has a deep passion for reading and writing.

To reach a higher level of being, you must assume a higher concept of yourself.

Theresa

Executive Visionary

Theresa brings over 40 years of experience in leadership, mentorship, and innovative problem-solving from her previous roles at AT&T, Barnes & Noble Booksellers and MGM Resorts International. As Executive Visionary for HYLY she is dedicated to supporting young girls in developing self-esteem, strength within and understanding their rights and ability to shape their own lives.

In her free time, she enjoys volunteering, listening to music, reading, taking long walks, and watching a wide range of movies and documentaries.

Peace in your heart, your home, and your world is a necessary equalizer to balancing life.

Her Moment Is Now

Empower Her Today, Watch Her Thrive Tomorrow