While many teens were navigating the familiar hallways of high school, Michella Filipowitz was walking a very different path—through the cobblestone streets of Paris, chasing a dream that many only imagine. At just 15 years old, Michella made a bold decision to leave home and pursue a career in the world of modeling, a choice that would take her on a journey filled with challenges, self-discovery, and ultimately, triumph.
Michella’s decision to leave her family home at such a young age was driven by an intense passion for the fashion industry. Paris, with its reputation as the fashion capital of the world, beckoned her with the promise of glamour and opportunity. “I didn’t say a word to my parents. I just packed my bags and went,” she recalls. “When my mom called a couple of weeks later, I told her, ‘I’m not coming back. You can visit me in Paris!’” It was a bold move, reflecting her determination to follow her dreams, no matter the cost.
Upon arriving in Paris, Michella quickly found herself swept up in the fast-paced world of modeling. With an agent by her side, she dove headfirst into a whirlwind of photoshoots, advertisements, and runway shows. The excitement of the fashion world was everything she had imagined, but it wasn’t long before the reality of her situation began to sink in. “Paris was everything I thought it would be, but it was also incredibly tough,” she admits. “I was just a kid, really, and I saw things that were hard to process at that age.”
Without the support of her family or close friends, Michella found herself navigating the challenges of the modeling industry on her own. She soon realized that while the industry was glamorous, it could also be harsh and unforgiving. “There were times when I really needed someone to talk to,” she reflects. “But when I brought my concerns to my agent, I was told to keep quiet and just focus on my work.” It was a difficult lesson, one that taught her the importance of resilience and self-reliance at a very young age.
By the age of 17, Michella began to question her place in the modeling world. “I started to feel like I was losing myself,” she says. “I knew I needed to find something that would fulfill me in a different way.” Trusting her instincts, Michella made the decision to leave modeling behind and explore a new passion—art.
Michella’s move to London marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life. She immersed herself in the art world, finding a deep connection to the stories and emotions behind each piece. “Art became my sanctuary,” she explains. “I was drawn to the works of great artists like Monet, Picasso, and Condo. There was something so powerful about being able to hold a piece of history, something that had meaning and significance beyond the surface.”
Her career in the art world began at HUS Gallery, where she quickly discovered her talent for art dealing. “Working at HUS was a pivotal moment for me,” she says. “It was there that I truly found my calling. I realized that art wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about connecting with people’s stories and experiences.” Michella’s passion for art continued to grow, and she began to specialize in sourcing rare and valuable pieces for private clients around the world.
Today, Michella resides in Sydney, Australia, where she has built a successful career as a private art dealer. She works with a select group of clients, helping them to curate collections that reflect their personal tastes and histories. “I love the work I do,” she says. “There’s something incredibly rewarding about finding the perfect piece of art for someone, knowing that it will bring them joy and inspiration.”
However, Michella’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. At the age of 23, her life took a dramatic turn when she became a mother. “Motherhood was a completely new experience for me,” she reflects. “I became a single mother shortly after my son was born, and it was a challenging time.” Michella’s resilience was tested once again when her son was diagnosed with autism. “It was a difficult period, but I was determined to give him the best life possible,” she says.
Raising a child with special needs brought a new perspective to Michella’s life. “It made me realize how important it is to have a strong support system,” she explains. With the help of her mother and a close-knit group of friends, Michella navigated the complexities of her son’s diagnosis, finding strength in her community. “I’m so grateful for the people who were there for me during that time,” she says.
Inspired by her experiences, Michella decided to channel her energy into helping others facing similar challenges. Alongside her fiancé, she co-founded the DR Family Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting children with disabilities and their families. “Our foundation is all about giving back,” she says. “We help families with school fees and provide resources for kids who are in tough situations at home.”
Michella’s commitment to the foundation reflects her belief in the power of community and the importance of creating opportunities for everyone, regardless of their circumstances. “It takes a village to raise a child,” she says. “Through the DR Family Foundation, we’re working to make sure that every child has the support they need to succeed.”
Her philosophy is rooted in the idea that adversity can be a source of strength. “I’ve faced a lot of challenges in my life,” she says. “But those experiences have made me who I am today. I wouldn’t change anything about my journey because it’s brought me to where I am now.”
Michella Filipowitz’s story is one of resilience, passion, and a deep commitment to helping others. From her early days in Paris to her work as an art dealer and philanthropist in Sydney, she has shown that with determination and support, it’s possible to overcome any obstacle. To learn more about Michella’s journey and the work of the DR Family Foundation, follow her on Instagram @princessmichella.