By: Maria Williams
Michella Filipowitz, known for her successful career as a model, businesswoman, and philanthropist, has dedicated herself to advocating for children with disabilities. Her personal journey as a single mother to her son Benjamin, who was diagnosed with autism, has shaped her mission to build a world where differences are embraced and children are given the support they need to succeed.
At just 23 years old, Michella’s life took an unexpected turn when her son was diagnosed with autism. “It wasn’t something I was prepared for,” she recalls. “No one in my family had ever experienced something like this.” But rather than viewing Benjamin’s diagnosis as a challenge, Michella saw it as an opportunity to learn and grow. With the support of her mother, she embraced her role as an advocate, determined to make a difference not only for Benjamin but for other children like him.
Benjamin’s condition is often referred to as a hidden disability—his challenges, such as speech delays, aren’t immediately visible, but they profoundly affect his day-to-day life. “It was painful to watch him struggle with things that came so naturally to other kids,” Michella shares. “I knew something had to change, not just for him, but for all children with disabilities.”
Seeing the isolation Benjamin faced opened Michella’s eyes to the barriers that children with special needs often encounter. Her experiences inspired her to create a community where children like Benjamin would not just be accepted, but celebrated for their unique perspectives. “Diversity is what makes us strong,” she explains. “It’s about creating an environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive, no matter their abilities.”
Michella is also passionate about changing the way society views differences. “We live in a world where people are quick to judge,” she says. “But what makes us different is what gives us strength.”
A key part of Michella’s mission is advocating for more inclusive education. She believes that children with disabilities should not be segregated from their peers, but instead, should have the opportunity to learn and grow alongside them. “Kids learn from one another,” Michella explains. “When we keep them apart, we’re doing them a disservice.”
Her vision is for schools to embrace diversity, teaching children that differences are something to be respected and appreciated. “We need to start teaching kids early on that being different isn’t something to be ashamed of,” she says. “It’s something to celebrate.”
In her role as the co-founder of the DR Family Foundation, which she established alongside her fiancé, Michella is working to provide critical resources to families of children with disabilities. “As a single mother, I understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate the costs of therapies and education,” she says. “Many families simply don’t have the resources they need, and that’s where we want to help.”
The DR Family Foundation has already made a significant impact by helping families cover school fees and other essential expenses. One of the foundation’s ambitious projects is creating a home for children in difficult family situations. “It’s about more than just providing a roof over their heads,” Michella says. “We want to create a space where these kids feel supported, valued, and part of a community.”
Through her journey with Benjamin, Michella has learned valuable lessons about resilience, acceptance, and love. “Benjamin has taught me more than I ever thought possible,” she reflects. “What the world might see as a challenge, I see as his strength. He’s changed the way I see everything.”
Michella’s ultimate goal is to see a world where children with disabilities are fully included in society, treated with respect, and given the tools they need to succeed. The DR Family Foundation is at the forefront of this movement, helping to create a future where every child has a chance to thrive. “I want to offer hope to families who are going through the same struggles,” she says. “Together, we can make a difference.”
To stay connected with Michella Filipowitz and her ongoing work advocating for children with disabilities, follow her on Instagram @princessmichella.
Published by: Holy Minoza
