Photo Credit: G Apuzzo Jr
Meet Ilsy J Hoo! Orginally from Brooklyn and Staten Island, NY Ilsy has been living in Monmouth County for 4 years and loves everything about living here. Ilsy recently competed and won for the first time in the Miss New Jersey for America state pageant! She is an accomplished writer for BELLA Magazine and an advocate for domestic violence. On top of her busy schedule Ilsy enjoys spending time with her two teens and her wonderful fiancé. Learn more in our interview below about Ilsy’s life here with her family, and some of her accomplishments and mom goals!
Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I’m originally from Brooklyn, NY then moved to Staten Island, NY and finally moved to Monmouth County NJ 4 years ago. I love everything about Monmouth County and wished I moved here sooner. I did meet my awesome fiancé in NJ so it’s definitely been a blessing living here.
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
Catherine, 16 and Daniel 13
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
I recently won the Miss New Jersey for America state pageant. This was my first time competing and never had an interest to compete until I was recommended to the pageant director. It was the most amazing experience and love their mission to support our community and one another.
Especially going through Covid-19, my pageant sisters were a huge support and we definitely grew a bond that will last forever.
Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
I’m blessed with a great support system but my mom has been my rock throughout the years. Raising teens has been emotional since my children and I are so close. Watching them grow up has given me so many mixed emotions in which you only know if you’ve been through it. I thank my mom for the times she assures me that kids grow up but never stop needing you.
Favorite things to do with your kids?
I love going on road trips with my kids and watching them play sports. Any type of quality time with them is my favorite thing to do.
Photo Credit: G Apuzzo Jr
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
Along with being a full time employee of a fortune 500 company, I’m an accomplished writer for BELLA Magazine and humanitarian. My pageant platform was based on domestic violence awareness which led me to work closely with Victims Voice, a company that help victims document legally admissible proof needed when reporting abuse.
I plan to work with Victims Voice and New Jersey officials to pass a legislative law that will prohibit awarding alimony to domestic violence offenders.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
I love how our community has so many network groups. It’s really helped people come together and offer support to those who need an extra hand during Covid-19.
What is your favorite restaurant in Monmouth County?
Undici in Rumson and Beach Tavern in Monmouth Beach.
Photo Credit: Jessica Cirz Photography
What is your favorite activity to do with your child(ren) in Monmouth County?
We love going to the beach in Sea bright or Deal. In the fall the kids and I go apple picking and then bake pies. It’s so fun!
What are your Mom Goals?
Being happy in all aspects in my life. Ensuring that I make enough time in my day to maintain a healthy fitness life.