From sneaking out of her home at 15 to pursue a modeling career in Paris, to becoming a leading advocate for children with disabilities, Michella Filipowitz’s story is a remarkable journey of passion, resilience, and purpose.
As a young woman, Michella Filipowitz embarked on her modeling career at an age when most teenagers are still figuring out their futures. Driven by ambition, she moved to Paris, where she quickly realized that the glamorous world of fashion was not as supportive as it seemed. Lacking the safety net of family or a secure environment, Michella pivoted her career towards art dealing, a field that allowed her to connect deeply with the stories behind each piece of art. “Owning a piece of history, something that encapsulates someone’s life experiences, is truly awe-inspiring,” she says, reflecting on her passion for the art world.
By the time she turned 23, Michella’s life took another unexpected turn when she became a single mother. Her son Benjamin was soon diagnosed with autism, a challenge that would redefine her life’s mission. What began as a personal journey of navigating the complexities of raising a child with special needs soon evolved into a broader commitment to helping other families in similar situations.
With no father figure to lean on and facing the challenges of raising a child with autism alone, Michella set out to find a school that would embrace Benjamin’s differences. “Children with disabilities didn’t choose their circumstances. They were born this way, and it’s our responsibility to support and accept them,” she says. Michella’s determination to find a school that valued inclusivity led her to understand the broader societal issues at play—issues she was determined to address.
Drawing from her own experiences, Michella co-founded the DR Family Foundation in Australia, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing families of children with disabilities the resources they need to thrive. The foundation offers financial assistance for school fees, ensuring that these children have access to the education they deserve, regardless of their financial situation. “It’s not just about covering costs,” Michella explains. “It’s about giving these children a chance to integrate into society, to learn and grow alongside their peers.”
As the heart and soul behind the DR Family Foundation, Michella’s relentless dedication has transformed the lives of countless families. Her vision extends beyond simply addressing the immediate needs of these children—she’s committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent them from reaching their full potential. “In mainstream schools, children on the spectrum are often seen as disruptive, so they’re placed in special schools. But that’s not the solution,” she argues. “Children should be together, learning from one another, understanding that diversity is something to be celebrated, not feared.”
The foundation’s work is not limited to education. Michella and her team are actively involved in changing societal perceptions of children with special needs. They collaborate with educational institutions and other organizations to promote inclusivity and ensure that children with disabilities receive the same opportunities as their peers, regardless of their background.
One of the foundation’s latest projects is the creation of homes for children in difficult family situations. “We’re working on building safe spaces for kids who are in challenging circumstances, like those coming from homes affected by substance abuse or violence,” Michella explains. “These children deserve more than just a roof over their heads—they need a supportive environment where they can heal and grow.”
Michella’s vision doesn’t stop there. She’s also working on creating a soccer team for children with disabilities in Australia, providing them with a platform to connect, build friendships, and develop a sense of belonging. “Sports can be a powerful tool for building confidence and community,” she says. “Through these initiatives, we want every child to feel valued and empowered, to know that their differences make them strong.”
The DR Family Foundation is dedicated to fostering a mindset of acceptance and inclusivity in everything it does. Michella believes that every child, regardless of their abilities, should be celebrated for who they are. “We’re building a future where no child is defined by their disabilities, but rather, by their unique strengths,” she emphasizes.
Michella’s journey from a young model in Paris to a leading advocate for children with special needs is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when one follows their passion and remains committed to making a difference. To learn more about Michella Filipowitz’s inspiring work and the ongoing projects of the DR Family Foundation, be sure to follow her on Instagram @princessmichella.
Written in partnership with Tom White.
