By: Maria Williams
While her peers were busy with the daily routines of high school, Michella Filipowitz embarked on a remarkable journey at the age of 15, setting off for Paris to pursue her modeling dreams. Leaving behind her family without a word, Michella’s adventurous spirit took her to the heart of the fashion world.
“I just left without saying goodbye,” Michella remembers with a chuckle. “When my mother called me a couple of weeks later, I told her she could visit me, but I wasn’t coming home.”
In Paris, the glitter of the fashion industry was both mesmerizing and isolating. Michella faced a series of challenges that, at her young age, were overwhelming. “I was exposed to a lot of things I wasn’t ready for,” she admits. “I wished I had someone to confide in, but everyone around me seemed indifferent.”
Struggling with loneliness and disillusionment, Michella found herself at odds with the industry’s expectations. Her agent’s dismissive attitude towards her concerns made her feel even more alienated.
Realizing that modeling was not her true calling, Michella made a daring decision at 17 to pivot towards art. Moving to London, she joined HUS Gallery and discovered her passion for art dealing. This new path allowed her to connect with the rich histories behind various artworks, a stark contrast to her previous experiences.
“Art dealing opened up a new world for me,” she says. “Each artwork tells a story, and I was fascinated by the idea that you could bring a piece of someone’s life into your home.”
Now based in Sydney, Michella excels as a private art dealer, catering to a global clientele. Despite the impression of a smooth transition from a young model to an art connoisseur, her life has been marked by significant personal challenges and resilience.
At 23, Michella faced a new chapter as a single mother when her son, Benjamin, was diagnosed with autism. “Becoming a mother and dealing with my son’s diagnosis was a turning point,” she reflects. “Thankfully, I had my mother and a supportive circle of friends to help me through.”
Inspired by her experiences, Michella co-founded the DR Family Foundation with her fiancé. The organization is dedicated to aiding families with children who have disabilities, providing financial support for education and creating safe spaces for those in difficult situations.
“The DR Family Foundation is a reflection of my commitment to giving back,” she explains. “We help cover school fees for children with special needs and are working on a project to create a home for kids facing challenging family circumstances.”
Michella’s advocacy extends beyond her own experiences. She is passionate about fostering a community where every child, regardless of their abilities or background, can find support and opportunity.
“All children deserve a chance to be part of society,” she asserts. “We need to work together to ensure they have the resources and support they need to succeed.”
Through her work with the DR Family Foundation, Michella is creating a positive impact, breaking down barriers, and promoting inclusivity. Her journey from Paris to Sydney is a testament to her resilience and dedication to making a difference.
“I’ve had my share of struggles,” she acknowledges. “But they’ve shaped me into who I am today. I wouldn’t change a thing about my story.”
For more on Michella Filipowitz’s impactful work and the DR Family Foundation, follow her on Instagram @princessmichella.
Published by: Khy Talara
