In the vibrant world of Paris, where most teenagers only dream of visiting, Michella Filipowitz was living a reality that few could imagine. At the tender age of 15, Michella made the bold decision to leave her home and venture into the world of modeling, embarking on a path filled with ambition, self-discovery, and ultimately, a deep sense of purpose.
Michella’s journey began with a departure that left her family shocked. “I didn’t give my parents any notice. I simply packed up and left,” she recalls. Paris, known for its iconic fashion scene and rich culture, was the destination that beckoned her. “When my mother finally got in touch with me weeks later, I told her I had no plans to return, and instead, invited her to visit me in Paris,” Michella shares with a laugh.
Once in Paris, Michella quickly found herself immersed in the fast-paced and demanding world of modeling. With an agent guiding her, she participated in various campaigns, runway shows, and photoshoots, experiencing the glamour and excitement of the industry firsthand. Yet, beneath the surface, Michella faced the harsh realities of life as a young model in a foreign city. “It was an eye-opening experience,” she admits. “I was just a teenager, and I encountered situations that were far beyond my years.”
Despite the allure of the fashion industry, Michella soon realized that the glamorous facade often masked a more challenging reality. “There were moments when I felt incredibly alone,” she confides. “I reached out to my agent for support, but was met with indifference, being told to just push through it.” This experience taught her a tough lesson about the industry and the importance of resilience. “I learned early on that in order to survive in this environment, I had to keep my concerns to myself,” she says.
By the age of 17, Michella began to feel disillusioned with the world of modeling. The industry that once captivated her had started to feel restrictive, and she yearned for something more meaningful. “I felt like I was losing my sense of self,” she reflects. “I knew that I needed to find a new path, one that would allow me to grow in a different way.”
Trusting her instincts, Michella made a bold move once again—this time leaving the modeling world behind to pursue a passion for art. She relocated to London, where she immersed herself in the art scene, discovering a new way to connect with people and their stories. “Art became my refuge,” she explains. “I was drawn to the works of great artists, finding solace in the narratives each piece held.”
Michella’s career in the art world began at HUS Gallery, where she quickly established herself as a talented art dealer. “Working at HUS was a turning point for me,” she says. “It was there that I truly discovered my calling. Art wasn’t just about visual appeal—it was about understanding and sharing the stories behind each piece.” Michella’s ability to connect with both the art and the people who cherished it became the foundation of her success in the industry.
Today, Michella is based in Sydney, Australia, where she has built a thriving career as a private art dealer. She specializes in sourcing and curating unique collections for clients around the world, focusing on pieces that resonate with their personal histories and tastes. “There’s nothing quite like finding that perfect piece for someone,” she says. “It’s not just about the art itself—it’s about the connection it creates and the emotions it evokes.”
Living in Sydney has provided Michella with the stability she sought, allowing her to balance her professional endeavors with her personal life. “Sydney has been a wonderful place to put down roots,” she says. “It’s given me the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.”
However, Michella’s life took a significant turn at the age of 23, when she became a mother. “Motherhood was a completely new experience for me,” she reflects. “Becoming a single parent shortly after my son was born brought challenges I hadn’t anticipated.” Michella’s resilience was tested once more when her son was diagnosed with autism. “It was a difficult time,” she admits. “But I was determined to provide him with the best life possible.”
Navigating the complexities of raising a child with special needs brought new meaning to Michella’s life. “It made me realize the importance of having a strong support system,” she says. “I was fortunate to have my mother and close friends by my side, helping me through those tough times.” This experience inspired Michella to give back to others facing similar challenges.
With her fiancé, Michella co-founded the DR Family Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting children with disabilities and their families. “Our foundation is all about offering support,” she explains. “We assist with school fees and provide resources for families who are struggling.”
The DR Family Foundation has become a pillar of hope for many families, offering not only financial assistance but also emotional support. Michella’s personal experiences as a mother have fueled her passion for the foundation’s mission. “I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to navigate life’s challenges,” she says. “That’s why I wanted to create a foundation that offers both practical and emotional support to families in need.”
Michella’s work with the DR Family Foundation reflects her belief in the power of community. “It takes a collective effort to make a real difference,” she says. “Through our foundation, we aim to create opportunities for every child, regardless of their circumstances.”
Her philosophy is centered on the idea that adversity can be a source of growth. “I’ve faced my share of challenges,” she acknowledges. “But each of those experiences has shaped me into the person I am today. I wouldn’t change anything about my journey.”
Michella’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 the right 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.
Written in partnership with Tom White.
