While her classmates were immersed in the daily grind of high school life, Michella Filipowitz took a bold step at just 15 years old, heading to Paris to chase her dream of becoming a model. Leaving her family behind without a word, Michella plunged into the vibrant yet challenging world of fashion.
“I just left without a word,” Michella recalls with a laugh. “When my mom reached out a few weeks later, I told her she could come visit, but I wasn’t coming back.”
In Paris, the allure of the fashion industry was as captivating as it was daunting. Michella encountered numerous obstacles that felt insurmountable at such a young age. “I was thrust into situations I wasn’t prepared for,” she confesses. “I longed for someone to confide in, but everyone around me seemed detached.”
Feeling isolated and disheartened, Michella struggled with the industry’s unrealistic expectations. Her agent’s dismissive approach to her concerns only deepened her sense of alienation.
Realizing that modeling wasn’t her true passion, Michella made a bold move at 17, redirecting her focus towards art. She relocated to London, joined HUS Gallery, and discovered a newfound passion for art dealing. This new direction allowed her to connect with the rich narratives behind various pieces of art, a refreshing change from her previous experiences.
“Art dealing introduced me to a whole new world,” she reflects. “Every piece of art has its own story, and I was captivated by the idea of bringing a fragment of someone’s life into people’s homes.”
Now settled in Sydney, Michella has made a name for herself as a private art dealer, serving an international clientele. Although her journey from a young model to an art expert might seem seamless, it has been marked by significant personal hurdles and unwavering determination.
At the age of 23, Michella entered a new phase as a single mother when her son, Benjamin, was diagnosed with autism. “Becoming a mother and facing my son’s diagnosis was a pivotal moment,” she shares. “Luckily, my mother and a supportive network of friends were there to help me through.”
Motivated by her own experiences, Michella co-founded the DR Family Foundation with her fiancé. The foundation is committed to supporting families with children who have disabilities, offering financial assistance for education and creating safe environments for those in need.
“The DR Family Foundation represents my dedication to giving back,” she explains. “We provide financial support for school fees for children with special needs and are working on a project to establish a home for children facing tough family situations.”
Michella’s advocacy goes beyond her personal journey. She is deeply committed to creating a community where every child, regardless of their background or abilities, can find support and opportunities.
“Every child deserves to be part of society,” she asserts. “We must come together to ensure they have the resources and support needed to thrive.”
Through her work with the DR Family Foundation, Michella is making a significant impact, dismantling barriers, and championing inclusivity. Her journey from Paris to Sydney is a testament to her resilience and commitment to creating positive change.
“I’ve faced many challenges,” she admits. “But they’ve shaped who I am today. I wouldn’t change a single thing about my journey.”
To learn more about Michella Filipowitz’s impactful work and the DR Family Foundation, follow her on Instagram @princessmichella.
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