“We are one community, and it’s our job to lift each other up.”
These powerful words come from Michella Filipowitz, a businesswoman, model, and philanthropist who is making waves with her commitment to inclusion and support for children with disabilities. Her story is a testament to the strength found in embracing our differences and the positive impact it can have on society.
In a world that should be more accepting, many still face judgment and exclusion, especially those with disabilities. Michella knows this all too well. When she became a single mother at 23, her son Benjamin was diagnosed with autism by the age of three. “It was hard to accept at first,” she admits, “but with my mother’s help, I learned to embrace it and realized the importance of understanding and accepting differences.”
Benjamin’s condition, a hidden disability, isn’t obvious at first glance. He struggles with a speech delay, meaning his brain processes things differently. “It’s not something you see right away, but when you notice other kids reaching milestones that he isn’t, it’s tough,” Michella shares. Watching her son face challenges that other children didn’t was a turning point for her.
What hurt the most was seeing Benjamin being left out at school. “Seeing him play alone while the other kids played together was heartbreaking,” she says. But instead of giving up, it pushed her to become more aware and determined to make a difference, not just for her son, but for other children like him.
We live in a world where people often rush to judge, especially when they don’t understand someone’s struggles. Michella wants to change that mindset. She believes that instead of shunning those who are different, we should celebrate our unique qualities. “You can’t judge someone without knowing what they’re going through,” she says. “I want to help people see that everyone has value, no matter what challenges they face.”
One place where Michella believes change needs to happen is in the education system. “Mainstream schools often don’t want to accept kids on the spectrum because they think it will be too disruptive,” she explains. “But separating them into special schools isn’t the answer.” She believes that all kids should learn together, so they can understand and respect each other’s differences.
Michella is also passionate about making sure every child has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or abilities. That’s why she co-founded the DR Family Foundation with her fiancé. The foundation helps children with disabilities and supports families who are struggling to afford the necessary resources. “I’ve been through the tests, the therapies, and the costs, and I know how overwhelming it can be,” she says. “That’s why we started this foundation—to give families the help they need.”
The foundation also has plans to open a home for children in difficult family situations, providing them with a safe and supportive environment. “My life has changed so much since Benjamin came into it,” Michella reflects. “He’s the reason I want to help others. He’s the reason I am who I am today.”
Michella Filipowitz’s journey highlights the profound impact of embracing diversity and supporting those who face challenges. Her dedication to creating a more inclusive world serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in compassion and understanding. Through her work, she continues to inspire others to recognize the value in every individual, regardless of their differences.
Michella Filipowitz is on a mission to change the world by embracing diversity and supporting those who need it most. Her story is one of resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to making the world a better place for everyone. To follow her journey and learn more about her work, you can find her on social media.
Written in partnership with Tom White.
