Michella Filipowitz: A Story of Unconventional Love and Family
Michella Filipowitz’s life is a powerful reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to love and family. As a model, art dealer, and co-chair of the DR Family Foundation, Michella has forged a path that challenges the traditional ideals of what it means to find happiness and fulfillment. Her story is not only one of personal growth but also of how love, in its many forms, can transform lives and inspire others.
In today’s world, the idea of a "perfect" family is often depicted as one that follows a predictable pattern—fall in love, get married, have children, and settle into a comfortable life. While this path works for some, it’s not the only way to achieve happiness. Michella’s journey is a testament to the fact that life doesn’t always go according to plan, and that’s where its true beauty lies.
Michella’s story begins at the young age of 15 when she made the bold decision to leave her home and pursue a modeling career in Paris. This move wasn’t just about following a dream; it was about stepping into a world where she would have to navigate the complexities of life on her own. Those early years in Paris were formative, teaching Michella resilience, independence, and the importance of mental health. During this time, she faced challenges that highlighted the gaps in mental health support, particularly for young people dealing with trauma. These experiences ignited a passion in Michella for advocacy and support, which would later become a central theme in her life’s work.
As Michella’s life unfolded, it took a significant turn when she became a single mother at 23. Her son, Benjamin, brought immense joy into her life, but also a host of challenges. Michella found herself navigating the difficulties of single parenthood while also recovering from an abusive relationship. "Being a single mom is tough," she acknowledges. "But the love I have for my son gave me the strength to face every challenge head-on."
The arrival of Benjamin marked the beginning of a journey that would profoundly shape Michella’s life. At three years old, Benjamin was diagnosed with autism, a moment that brought both heartache and determination. "I noticed early on that Benjamin wasn’t developing at the same pace as other children," she recalls. "The diagnosis confirmed my fears, but it also strengthened my resolve to do everything in my power to support him."
Michella immersed herself in learning everything she could about autism. She researched various therapies, scouted for the best schools, and sought out professionals who could help guide her through this new chapter of life. Living in Miami at the time, Michella faced significant challenges in finding the right educational environment for Benjamin. Many private schools were reluctant to accept him, fearing that his presence might disrupt the learning experience for other students. On the other hand, schools specifically designed for children with disabilities often isolated these children, limiting their opportunities to interact with their peers. Michella was determined to find a school where Benjamin could thrive, surrounded by a diverse group of children who would help him grow socially and academically.
After extensive searching, Michella finally found a school that welcomed Benjamin with open arms. This was a turning point for both of them, as it provided Benjamin with the support he needed and gave Michella the peace of mind she had been seeking.
Just as Michella began to find stability in her life, fate introduced her to her fiancé, an art dealer from Sydney. Their connection was immediate and deep, and before long, they were making plans for a future together. "Our first date was supposed to be a simple lunch, but we ended up talking for hours," Michella remembers. "I knew right then that I had found someone special."
Moving to Sydney to be with her fiancé was a big decision for Michella, one that came with its own set of challenges. It meant starting over in a new city and finding the right support systems for Benjamin all over again. The transition wasn’t easy, especially when Michella realized that Australia’s systems for mental health and disability support were not as robust as those in Miami. "It was a difficult adjustment," she says. "But my fiancé’s unwavering support and love for Benjamin made all the difference."
Despite the challenges, Michella and her fiancé were able to create a loving, supportive environment for their blended family. The love they shared not only strengthened their bond but also inspired them to give back to the community in a meaningful way. Together, they co-founded the DR Family Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping children and families facing challenges similar to those Michella and Benjamin had overcome.
The DR Family Foundation’s mission is to create a safe and nurturing environment for children from all walks of life—whether they come from broken homes, live with disabilities, or simply need a place where they can grow and thrive. The foundation offers financial assistance to help cover the costs of schooling for children in disadvantaged situations and provides a safe haven where they can feel supported and loved.
But the foundation’s vision doesn’t stop there. Michella and her fiancé have ambitious plans for the future, including expanding their efforts to support abused women and organizing community volunteer events. "We want to spread love and kindness wherever we can," Michella says. "Because at the end of the day, that’s what the world needs more of."
Michella’s life story is one of resilience, love, and a deep commitment to making a difference in the world. It’s a reminder that even when life doesn’t follow a traditional path, there is beauty and fulfillment to be found in the unexpected. "Benjamin changed my life in ways I never could have imagined," Michella reflects. "And now, with my fiancé by my side, I’m excited to see what the future holds for our family and for the foundation."
To keep up with Michella’s journey and learn more about the DR Family Foundation’s projects, follow her on Instagram @princessmichella. The foundation’s new home for children is set to open in Summer 2025, with many more exciting initiatives on the horizon.