In a world where the traditional path to family and love is often seen as the gold standard, Michella Filipowitz’s journey stands as a powerful testament to the beauty and strength that comes from forging your own path. As a model, art dealer, mother, and Co-Founder of the DR Family Foundation, Michella’s life story is one of resilience, love, and the pursuit of what truly matters.
Michella’s path to where she is today began at the young age of 15 when she left home to pursue a modeling career in Paris. It was a bold move for someone so young, but Michella was determined to follow her dreams. Reflecting on those years, she acknowledges the challenges she faced, particularly the lack of mental health support available to her as she navigated the pressures of the fashion industry. “I was so young, and I didn’t have the tools to cope with the trauma I experienced. It’s something I carry with me, and it’s what drives my passion for helping others today.”
At 23, Michella’s life took a dramatic tur when she became a single mother to her son, Benjamin. What she didn’t know at the time was how profoundly Benjamin would change her life. “When Benjamin was born, I was in a difficult situation, but I knew I had to protect him and provide the best life possible,” she says. Her relationship at the time was abusive, but Michella found the strength to leave, focusing on raising her son with love, kindness, and safety.
The challenges didn’t stop there. By the time Benjamin was three, he was diagnosed with autism, a reality that was hard for Michella to accept. “It was heartbreaking to see him struggle, especially when I noticed he wasn’t hitting the same milestones as other children his age. But I refused to let his diagnosis define his future,” she explains.
Living in Miami at the time, Michella dedicated herself to finding the best therapies and educational opportunities for Benjamin. Her research was extensive, and she quickly learned that not all schools were equipped or willing to accommodate children with disabilities. “It was frustrating,” she recalls. “Private schools often rejected Benjamin, fearing he would be too disruptive. But I knew that isolating him wasn’t the answer.”
Amidst these challenges, Michella’s life took a positive turn when she met her fiancé. “Our connection was instant,” she says with a smile. “We spent hours talking on our first date, and I knew something special was happening. He understood my situation with Benjamin, and his love for both of us made me realize I had found a true partner.”
Their relationship deepened, and Michella eventually moved to Sydney, Australia, with her fiancé. The move wasn’t without its difficulties, as Michella had to start the process of finding the right support for Benjamin all over again. “It was like reliving the challenges I faced when I was 15 in Paris,” she admits. “The lack of support systems for mental health and disabilities in Australia was surprising. But my fiancé and his children welcomed us with open arms, and we built a beautiful life together.”
Michella and her fiancé’s shared passion for helping others led them to co-found the DR Family Foundation. The foundation’s mission is deeply personal, with Benjamin’s story at its core. “We wanted to create a space where children from all walks of life—whether they come from broken homes, have disabilities, or face other challenges—could feel safe and supported,” Michella explains. The foundation not only helps cover school fees for children in need but also plans to expand its reach by building a home for these children and offering support to women who have been abused.
Michella’s journey has taught her the importance of love and support in all its forms. “Benjamin is my first love, and he changed my life in ways I never expected. Now, with my fiancé, I’ve found a new kind of love—one that’s built on understanding, acceptance, and a shared vision for the future,” she says.
Michella’s story is a reminder that the traditional path isn’t the only path. By following her heart, she has created a life filled with love, purpose, and the drive to make a difference. To learn more about Michella and her work with the DR Family Foundation, follow her on Instagram @princessmichella. Keep an eye out for updates on their latest projects, including the opening of the new foundation home in Summer 2025.
