Meet the Instructor

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Founder and Youth Mentor with a passion for empowering young people through mentorship, career readiness, and life-skills development. Creator of Resilient Youth of Tomorrow, a mentorship and guidance program that helps youth ages 13–21 build resumes, prepare for college and careers, and develop confidence through structured one-on-one mentorship.

Experienced in youth engagement, resume coaching, workforce readiness, and community outreach, with a strong background in technology and professional development. Known for helping youth and young adults secure employment, improve resumes, and gain direction for future success.

Committed to building partnerships with schools, community organizations, and local businesses to expand opportunities for youth.

FOUNDER & YOUTH MENTOR

STORY

Resilient Youth of Tomorrow LLC

Maryland | 2022 – Present

Airy Tilghman is the founder of Resilient Youth of Tomorrow, a mentorship initiative created to help young people overcome adversity and build brighter futures.

Airy’s passion for youth mentorship is rooted deeply in her own life experiences. At just two years old, she was separated from her parents and was taken in by her aunt; becoming a ward of the state. While many children grow up surrounded by the stability of loving parents, Airy’s early childhood was marked by uncertainty and hardship.

Her mother struggled with mental health challenges, and her father battled alcoholism. At the time, they were not able to provide the safe and stable environment she needed. Being removed from her parents at such a young age was a traumatic experience that shaped much of Airy’s childhood and perspective on life.

Growing up without her parents was not easy. Like many youth navigating similar circumstances, she faced emotional challenges, questions about identity, and the absence of consistent guidance. However, through resilience and determination, Airy learned that difficult beginnings do not have to determine the outcome of one’s future.

Instead of allowing her circumstances to define her, she chose to use her story as motivation to succeed and to uplift others.

Today, Airy is committed to being the mentor she once needed.

Through Resilient Youth of Tomorrow, she works to provide guidance, encouragement, and practical life skills to youth who may be facing obstacles of their own. Her program focuses on mentorship, resume development, career readiness, and personal growth for youth ages 13–21, helping them build confidence and discover their potential.

Airy believes that when young people are given the right support, positive role models, and access to opportunity, they can overcome even the most difficult circumstances.

In addition to leading Resilient Youth of Tomorrow, Airy also serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer in Washington, DC, advocating for youth in the foster care system. In this role, she works directly with young people navigating complex and challenging situations, ensuring their voices are heard and that their needs are represented in court and within the child welfare system.

Her work as a CASA volunteer reinforces the mission that drives her mentorship program: every child deserves guidance, support, and someone who believes in their future.

Airy’s journey—from a child navigating the foster care system to a mentor, advocate, and community leader—is a powerful example of resilience and purpose. Through her work, she hopes to inspire young people to believe in themselves, pursue their goals, and realize that their past does not define their future.

At the heart of Resilient Youth of Tomorrow is a simple belief:

With the right mentorship, encouragement, and opportunity, every young person has the power to rise above their circumstances and create a successful life.