Michella Filipowitz, a prominent model, business leader, and philanthropist, has dedicated her life to advocating for children with disabilities. Her personal story, shaped by her experiences as the mother of a child with autism, has driven her passion to build a more inclusive world where differences are not just accepted but celebrated.

Michella’s journey took a transformative turn when she became a single mother at the age of 23. Shortly after, her son, Benjamin, was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. “It was an unexpected and overwhelming moment,” Michella recalls. “No one in my family had dealt with anything like this before, but with my mother’s guidance, I was able to see Benjamin’s diagnosis not as a burden, but as a new way of understanding the world.”

Benjamin’s condition is categorized as a hidden disability. Though it’s not always obvious to others, his challenges—such as delayed speech—affect his everyday experiences. “It was difficult to watch him struggle while other kids seemed to develop so naturally,” Michella shares. “It made me realize how often children with disabilities are left out or misunderstood.”

This realization sparked a new mission for Michella: to create a world where children like Benjamin are given the same opportunities as their peers. “I knew I had to be part of the solution,” she says. “Our differences are what make us unique, and we should be embracing that, not hiding from it.”

Michella is also keenly aware of how quickly people judge others based on outward appearances. “We live in a time where everything is so public and visible, but that doesn’t mean we know the whole story,” she explains. “It’s important to have empathy and not make assumptions.”

Her advocacy work has centered on changing how schools and communities treat children with disabilities. Too often, children like Benjamin are segregated in special schools, which can further isolate them. Michella believes this approach is flawed. “Children with disabilities need to learn alongside their peers,” she says. “Only then can they grow up understanding that differences are normal, not something to be avoided.”

Her vision is clear: an education system where children of all abilities are taught together, learning to respect one another from an early age. “If we can instill the values of acceptance and understanding in kids while they’re young, we’ll build a much more inclusive society,” she says.

Michella’s commitment to helping families of children with disabilities goes beyond advocacy. She co-founded the DR Family Foundation with her fiancé to provide critical support to families who are struggling with the high costs of therapies, treatments, and education. “As a single mother, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be,” she explains. “That’s why I wanted to help other families get the resources they need.”

The DR Family Foundation has already made a significant difference, helping families cover school expenses and other essential costs. The foundation’s next big initiative is creating a home for children from difficult backgrounds, offering them a safe and nurturing space where they can thrive. “It’s not just about providing shelter,” Michella says. “It’s about building a community where these children feel loved and supported.”

Reflecting on her journey with Benjamin, Michella speaks with gratitude. “He’s shown me that what others might see as a challenge is actually his strength,” she says. “His resilience and uniqueness are what make him so special, and I want to make sure other children have the opportunity to shine in their own way.”

Through her work, Michella envisions a world where children with disabilities are fully included in every aspect of life. She hopes that by advocating for inclusion and providing support through the DR Family Foundation, she can help create a brighter future for these children. “I want parents to know that they’re not alone,” she says. “With the right support, we can give our children the chance to live fulfilling, happy lives.”

Stay connected with Michella Filipowitz and her mission to create a more inclusive society for children with disabilities by following her on Instagram @princessmichella.​