Michella Filipowitz’s life has been defined by her commitment to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for those who need them most. From her early days as a model in Paris to her current role as the driving force behind the DR Family Foundation, Michella has dedicated herself to ensuring that children with disabilities receive the care, support, and inclusion they deserve. Her journey is one of resilience, compassion, and a relentless drive to make a difference.
Michella’s story begins at the age of 15, when she made the bold decision to leave home and pursue her modeling dreams in Paris. This decision was not only courageous but also transformative, as it marked the beginning of a journey that would shape her into the person she is today. "Paris was everything I had imagined—glamorous, exciting, but also incredibly challenging," she reflects. "It was a place where I had to learn how to navigate life on my own, and those lessons have stayed with me."
The fashion industry, while filled with opportunities, also revealed its harsh realities. Michella quickly realized that the industry lacked the emotional and mental support that young models needed. This experience opened her eyes to the importance of mental health and the need for supportive environments where individuals can thrive. "It was a tough but valuable experience," she says. "It taught me the importance of resilience and the need for spaces where people can feel supported and understood."
As Michella’s career evolved, she transitioned from modeling to art dealing, a field where she found a deeper connection to culture, history, and storytelling. "Art has always been a passion of mine," she explains. "There’s something powerful about being able to connect with history through art, and I found that this was a space where I could really make a difference." This shift in her career not only provided Michella with a new sense of purpose but also allowed her to build a foundation for her future endeavors.
When Michella became a single mother at 23, her life took on new meaning. The birth of her son, Benjamin, brought immense joy, but it also introduced challenges that Michella had never anticipated. When Benjamin was diagnosed with autism, Michella’s world was forever changed. "I was overwhelmed at first," she admits. "But I knew that I had to be strong for Benjamin. He became my guiding light and the reason behind everything I do."
Raising a child with special needs is a journey filled with obstacles, and Michella quickly realized the gaps in support for families like hers. Without a partner to share the responsibilities, she faced the daunting task of navigating a complex and often confusing system of care and education. "It was difficult to find the right support," she recalls. "There were so many challenges, and it was hard to know where to turn." Michella’s search for a school that would accept and support Benjamin was particularly challenging. Many schools were either unwilling or unable to accommodate children with disabilities, often isolating them from their peers. This experience opened Michella’s eyes to the need for greater inclusivity in education—a realization that would ultimately lead to the creation of the DR Family Foundation.
The DR Family Foundation was established with a clear mission: to provide the resources and support that families need to help their children succeed. Whether it’s financial assistance for specialized education, access to therapies, or guidance for navigating the complexities of raising a child with disabilities, the foundation is there to help. "I’ve been in their shoes," Michella says. "I know how overwhelming it can be, and I wanted to create a space where families could find the help and support they need."
Under Michella’s leadership, the DR Family Foundation has become a beacon of hope for many families. The foundation works closely with schools and institutions to advocate for inclusive education, ensuring that children with disabilities are not just accepted but celebrated for who they are. "Education should be about more than just academics," Michella explains. "It should be about creating a safe, supportive environment where every child can thrive."
In addition to its educational initiatives, the foundation also offers emotional support to families through counseling services and peer networks. "Raising a child with special needs can be incredibly isolating," Michella says. "We want to create a community where families can connect, share their experiences, and support one another."
One of the foundation’s most ambitious projects is the development of homes for children who are in crisis situations. "We’re working on building homes for kids who are in difficult family situations—whether it’s due to abuse, neglect, or other hardships," Michella explains. "These children deserve a safe place where they can heal and thrive, and we’re committed to giving them that chance." The foundation’s approach to these homes is holistic, providing not just shelter, but also access to counseling, education, and recreational activities that help children rebuild their lives in a supportive environment.
Michella’s dedication to children with disabilities doesn’t stop there. She has also envisioned creating a soccer team for these children in Australia, providing them with an opportunity to engage in physical activity and social interaction in a supportive environment. "Sports can be a powerful tool for building confidence and a sense of belonging," she notes. "Every child deserves to feel included and valued, and we’re working to make that a reality."
Through the DR Family Foundation, Michella is changing lives and challenging societal perceptions of children with special needs. "Our differences make us stronger," she believes. "It’s about respect, inclusion, and empathy—values that should be at the heart of every community."
As the foundation continues to grow, Michella remains committed to her mission of creating a world where no child is left behind. "Every project we undertake is driven by the belief that every child deserves to be celebrated for who they are, not defined by their challenges," she says.
Michella Filipowitz’s journey from a young aspiring model to a leader in philanthropy is a testament to the power of determination and the impact one person can have on the lives of many. Her work with the DR Family Foundation is just beginning, and with her vision and dedication, the future looks bright for children with disabilities.
To follow Michella’s journey and learn more about the DR Family Foundation’s work, follow her on Instagram @princessmichella.
