By: Maria Williams
Michella Filipowitz, an inspiring figure who balances her roles as a model, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, has dedicated her life to advocating for children with disabilities. Through her personal journey as a mother to a child with autism, she has emerged as a leading voice for inclusion, striving to create a world where differences are not just accepted but celebrated.
Michella’s life took a transformative turn when, at the age of 23, she became a single mother to her son, Benjamin. At three years old, Benjamin was diagnosed with autism, a moment that forever changed Michella’s perspective. “It was overwhelming at first,” she recalls. “But I quickly realized that this diagnosis didn’t define Benjamin—it just meant he experienced the world in his own way.”
Benjamin’s autism is considered a hidden disability—his struggles are often not visible to those around him, but they deeply impact his daily life, especially in terms of speech. “He wasn’t reaching the same milestones as other kids,” Michella shares. “It was hard to watch him face those challenges, but it also opened my eyes to how many children with disabilities are left out.”
This experience inspired Michella to become an advocate for inclusivity, determined to change the way society views and treats children with disabilities. “Our differences are our strengths,” she says. “Instead of excluding people because they don’t fit into a certain mold, we should be celebrating what makes each person unique.”
Michella also reflects on how society is often quick to judge, especially in today’s digital world. “We’re living in a time where people are judged based on how they appear online, but real life is much more complex than that,” she explains. “We need to stop making assumptions and start having more empathy for one another.”
A critical part of Michella’s mission is advocating for inclusive education. She believes that children with disabilities should not be separated into special schools, but rather integrated into mainstream classrooms. “Keeping children with disabilities apart only deepens their sense of isolation,” she explains. “Kids need to grow up learning from one another and understanding that everyone has something valuable to contribute.”
Michella envisions a more inclusive education system, one that promotes respect and understanding from an early age. “If we can teach children to appreciate differences, we’ll create a future where inclusion is the norm, not the exception,” she says.
To put her vision into action, Michella co-founded the DR Family Foundation with her fiancé. The foundation is dedicated to providing financial support to families of children with disabilities, helping cover the costs of therapies, treatments, and schooling. “Being a single mother, I’ve faced many financial challenges myself,” she shares. “I wanted to ensure that other families wouldn’t have to face those obstacles alone.”
The DR Family Foundation has already made a significant impact, helping numerous families navigate the often overwhelming costs associated with raising a child with special needs. In addition, the foundation is currently working on building a home for children from difficult family backgrounds. “We want to create a place where these kids feel safe, supported, and loved,” Michella explains. “It’s about more than just providing shelter—it’s about building a community where they can thrive.”
Looking back on her journey, Michella credits Benjamin for teaching her some of life’s valuable lessons. “He’s shown me that what the world might see as a challenge is actually a strength,” she says. “His determination and resilience are what make him incredible, and I want to make sure other children with disabilities are given the same chance to shine.”
Through her work with the DR Family Foundation, Michella is focused on creating a future where children with disabilities are fully included in all aspects of society. “Every child deserves to feel accepted and supported,” she says. “It’s up to us to build a world where no one is left behind.”
To stay connected with Michella Filipowitz’s advocacy and learn more about her work, follow her on Instagram @princessmichella.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
