As a model, businesswoman, and philanthropist, Michella Filipowitz has spent much of her life advocating for children with disabilities. Her journey, both personal and professional, has led her to become a powerful voice for inclusion, particularly for those often left behind due to societal prejudices. Through her work, she seeks to create a community where diversity is not just recognized but celebrated.
Michella’s story began when she became a single mother at the age of 23. Her son, Benjamin, was diagnosed with autism at three years old, a life-changing moment that shifted her perspective. “It was a shock at first, as no one in my family had any disabilities,” she recalls. But with her mother’s support, Michella embraced the challenges ahead and learned to view her son’s condition not as a limitation but as a different way of experiencing the world.
Benjamin’s autism is considered a hidden disability—his challenges aren’t always obvious to outsiders, yet they affect his daily life. “For him, it’s mainly a speech delay,” Michella explains. “He wasn’t meeting milestones, and it was heartbreaking to see him struggle when other kids around him seemed to progress so naturally.” This experience opened Michella’s eyes to the isolation children with disabilities often face, especially in traditional school settings.
Watching her son struggle to find his place in a world that often misunderstood him led Michella to a powerful realization: society’s narrow definitions of “normal” create unnecessary barriers for children with disabilities. Her goal became clear—to build a community where differences are embraced, and every child is given the tools to thrive.
Michella is quick to highlight that in today’s world, where everything is visible online, it’s all too easy to pass judgment based on appearances. “We live in a world where conformity is often celebrated, and people are afraid to be different,” she says. “But it’s our differences that make us strong.”
For Michella, empathy and understanding begin with education, particularly in how schools treat children with disabilities. She explains that in many mainstream schools, children on the autism spectrum are often considered “disruptive” and are placed in special schools, which can lead to isolation. “This isn’t the solution,” she argues. “Kids need to learn from each other, and that can only happen when we allow them to grow together.”
To break down these barriers, Michella envisions a more inclusive education system where children of all abilities learn side by side. “Respect for diversity should start early,” she says. “Kids need to be taught that differences are something to be celebrated, not something to mock or avoid.”
Michella’s passion for inclusion extends beyond her son’s needs. She co-founded the DR Family Foundation with her fiancé to help children with disabilities, not only in terms of education but also by providing essential resources to families in need. “I’ve been through so much as a single mother,” she says. “The costs of therapies, treatments, and schooling can be overwhelming. I realized that many families don’t have the financial support they need, and I wanted to change that.”
The DR Family Foundation has already made a significant impact, helping families with school fees and other necessities. The foundation’s next big project involves creating a home for children from difficult family situations, providing them with a safe and supportive environment where they can flourish. “We’re working to ensure that these kids have a place to call home,” Michella explains. “It’s not just about housing them; it’s about giving them a community where they feel valued and accepted.”
Michella’s journey with Benjamin has profoundly shaped her mission. “He’s been my greatest teacher,” she reflects. “He’s shown me that what society often sees as a weakness is actually a strength. His resilience and uniqueness are what make him incredible.”
Her dream is to see a world where all children, regardless of their abilities, are treated with dignity and respect. Through the DR Family Foundation, she is working toward that goal, helping children with disabilities find their place in society and giving them the tools to succeed. Michella also hopes to inspire other parents going through similar experiences. “I want to be a source of hope for families,” she says. “It’s a tough journey, but with the right support, we can make life better for our children.”
To stay updated on Michella Filipowitz’s work and her ongoing advocacy for children with disabilities, follow her on Instagram @princessmichella.
Written in partnership with Tom White.
