Michella Filipowitz: From Model to Advocate for Kids

Michella Filipowitz’s life journey is a story of courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of children with special needs. From her early days as a model in Paris to becoming a mother and philanthropist, Michella has dedicated herself to breaking down barriers and advocating for those who often find themselves on the margins of society.

Michella’s story begins at just 15 years old when she made the bold decision to leave her family home and pursue a modeling career in Paris. The move was driven by a deep passion for fashion and a desire to carve out her own path. But the reality of life in Paris was far more challenging than she had anticipated. “Paris was everything I dreamed it would be, but it was also a place where I felt incredibly alone,” she recalls. “There were times when I needed support, but it wasn’t there.”

The fashion industry, known for its glamour, also revealed a harsher side. Michella quickly realized that the support systems she needed as a young woman far from home were lacking. This experience of isolation and the lack of emotional resources had a profound impact on her, shaping her future endeavors. “It was during those years that I realized how important it is to have a support network, especially when you’re facing challenges,” she explains. “That realization has stayed with me throughout my life and has influenced the work I do today.”

As Michella navigated the world of modeling, she began to see that her true passion lay elsewhere. At 17, she made the decision to pivot her career from modeling to art dealing—a field that allowed her to connect with people on a deeper level. “Art is about more than just beauty; it’s about telling stories and capturing the human experience,” she says. “I found that through art, I could connect with others in a way that felt meaningful.”

Working in art dealing, Michella discovered a new sense of purpose. She was drawn to the stories behind each piece of art, the history, and the emotions that these works conveyed. “Art became a refuge for me,” she shares. “It was a way to explore and express the complexities of life, and it gave me a sense of fulfillment that I hadn’t found in modeling.”

Michella’s life took another significant turn at the age of 23 when she became a single mother to her son, Benjamin. This new chapter brought with it both joy and challenges. “Becoming a mother was the most transformative experience of my life,” she reflects. “But it was also incredibly difficult, especially when I found myself raising Benjamin on my own.”

The challenges intensified when Benjamin was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. The diagnosis was a turning point for Michella, prompting her to focus her energy on providing the best possible life for her son. “Learning that Benjamin had autism was a difficult moment,” she admits. “But it also gave me a new sense of purpose. I knew I had to fight for him and for other children like him.”

Determined to find the right educational environment for Benjamin, Michella encountered numerous obstacles. Many schools were unwilling to accept a child with autism, citing concerns that he might be too disruptive. “It was heartbreaking to see how quickly doors closed for Benjamin,” she says. “But I refused to give up. I knew there had to be a way to ensure he received the education and support he deserved.”

In response to these challenges, Michella co-founded the DR Family Foundation in Australia, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children with disabilities and their families. The foundation was born out of Michella’s personal experiences and her desire to help other families facing similar struggles. “I knew that I wasn’t the only parent facing these challenges,” she explains. “I wanted to create an organization that would provide the support and resources that so many families need but often don’t have access to.”

The DR Family Foundation offers financial assistance to cover school fees and other essential services, ensuring that children with disabilities can access the education they need to thrive. But Michella’s vision for the foundation extends beyond just financial support. She is deeply committed to changing societal perceptions of disabilities and promoting inclusivity. “In many mainstream schools, children on the spectrum are seen as too disruptive, so they’re often placed in special schools,” she notes. “But that’s not the solution. All children should learn together, understanding and appreciating each other’s differences.”

To further her mission, Michella and the DR Family Foundation work closely with other institutions and educational resources to create a more inclusive society. The foundation’s efforts include advocacy, community outreach, and partnerships with schools to develop programs that foster inclusion and respect for all students. “We want to build communities where children with disabilities are not just accepted but celebrated for who they are,” Michella emphasizes. “It’s about creating environments where every child feels valued and empowered.”

One of the foundation’s upcoming projects is the construction of homes for children who come from challenging family situations. These homes will provide a safe and nurturing environment for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. “Some kids are dealing with really tough circumstances—whether it’s abuse, neglect, or other issues. We want to provide them with a safe space where they can heal and grow,” Michella explains. “It’s about giving them a chance at a better life, where they can feel secure and supported.”

In addition to providing financial and emotional support, the DR Family Foundation is also focused on fostering a sense of community among the children and families it serves. One of Michella’s initiatives is to establish a soccer team for children with disabilities in Australia. This program will offer children the opportunity to engage in sports, build friendships, and develop a sense of belonging. “Sports can be a powerful tool for building confidence and community,” Michella says. “It’s about more than just playing a game—it’s about creating connections and fostering inclusion.”

Michella’s relentless dedication to her work with the DR Family Foundation has made her a beacon of hope for countless families. Her passion for advocacy and her commitment to breaking down barriers for children with disabilities have empowered many to achieve new heights. “We’re working to create a space where every child is celebrated for their unique abilities, rather than being defined by their disabilities,” she says. “It’s about changing the narrative and ensuring that all children have the opportunity to succeed.”

Michella’s journey from a young model in Paris to a devoted mother and philanthropist is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact one person can have on the lives of many. Through her work with the DR Family Foundation, Michella is helping to build a world where every child is valued and supported, regardless of their abilities or circumstances.

To learn more about Michella Filipowitz’s inspiring work and the DR Family Foundation’s efforts to advocate for children with disabilities, follow her on Instagram @princessmichella. Stay tuned for updates on their upcoming projects, including the opening of their new foundation home in Summer 2025.

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