She's Got Somethin' to Say is a short film about an overstimulated Autistic teen who agreed to give a speech at her aunt's wedding. Together, she and her mom unpacks what the world expects – and how to show up fully. Our film offers an intimate look at the realities, challenges, and profound moments of connection that come with raising a child on the spectrum.

From the Writer/Director, Allie L. Harris:

She’s Got Somethin’ to Say is inspired by lived experiences. As a mother to an Autistic child (Level 1), I believe it is valuable to shed light on our "AUsome" experience, and amplify the message that a child’s “invisible disability” isn’t invisible at all. Like so many parents, we put incredible effort into supporting our kids and nurturing their confidence. I’ve seen firsthand how that work can be both incredibly challenging and more powerful than anyone expects.

Our team is driven to create a meaningful film that offers a glimpse into the often-unseen labor, love, and courage it takes for a child to show up as fully as they can. Our goal is to create an honest, emotionally resonant film that reflects the lived experiences of many families while contributing to the broader awareness and representation.

Our Team

Allie L. Harris
Writer & Director

Allie L. Harris is a writer, actor, and producer. Her acting work can be seen on PureFlix, Tubi, Amazon Prime, and regional commercials. She wrote and produced a sci-fi drama that was placed at the BronzeLens Film Festival in the Oscar-qualifying short film category. She also wrote, produced, and directed a scripted vertical series. View on IMDB

Kenisha Johnson
Co-Director & Producer

Kenisha Johnson is an actor, voiceover artist, host and producer based in Atlanta, GA. She has landed roles on ABC, FOX, Netflix, BET+, and PureFlix. She has voiced a host of regional & national commercials. As a producer, she has worked with several talented independent filmmakers on a variety of short films, a web series, and a documentary. View on IMDB

Eric "Maverick" Dodson
Director of Photography

Maverick is the owner and Director of Photography for Ollie & Panda Films is an award-winning production company. His work has been featured on ESPN, Netflix, Tubi, and in several film festivals. View website

Our Cast

Actor Image

Ava Starr as "Amber"

Ava Starr brings authenticity to the role as an actress who is on the autism spectrum. She studies dancing, acting, and improv; and admires creators like Debbie Allen and Ava DuVernay. She is the daughter of the Writer/Director. She’s Got Somethin’ to Say is Ava’s first on-screen project.

Shalèt Monique as "Mya"

Shalèt Monique is a passionate mental health and neurodiversity advocate. She spent over a decade as a special education teacher supporting students with diverse learning needs and uplifting underrepresented communities. Shalèt is an Afro-Cuban actress, stuntwoman, writer, and producer. She stars in the NAACP Image Award–winning film Straw (Tyler Perry Studios) and leads the upcoming theatrical release Leave (Summer 2026). Her additional credits include Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, HBO’s We Own This City, and BET Her’s The Pink Fight.

Authentically cast. Authentically told.

But here’s the truth:
Independent films don't just happen. It takes a village. It takes people like YOU.

We are raising $7500 to cover:

We Need Your Support

With your generous support, we are going to raise $7,500 which is the cost for SHE'S GOT SOMETHIN' TO SAY from production to festivals. And we're getting there - Thanks to support from contributors, She's Got Somethin' to Say has raised enough to cover filming.

Next is Post Production.

Help us raise the remaining amount to cover editing, coloring, sound design, score, and festival fees.

Donation Incentives
There are perks for your support!

🔥 $25 – "The Guest List"

Digital thank-you on social media
Shoutout in campaign updates

🎭 $50 – "The Wedding Album"

Name listed in the credits under "Supporters"
Exclusive behind-the-scenes photo access

📖 $100 – "Signed & Sealed"

All previous perks +
Signed digital script from the writer

🎟 $250 – "The Wedding Party"

All previous perks +
2 General Admission tickets to the live table reading
Special donor acknowledgment in the program

💐 $500 – "Producer’s Circle"

All previous perks +
Associate Producer credit in the credits
Exclusive invite to the private screening

💍 $1,000+ – "Executive Producer"

All previous perks +
Executive Producer credit in the film
Private Q&A with the Director and Producer

A colorful illustration of an African American girl dancing and wearing headphones

Your Support Matters
Please Donate Today

She's Got Somethin' to Say is about a mother-daughter story the screen has never seen.

It's about authenticity and finding your voice. It's about overcoming obstacles that seem impossible.

By donating, you’re not just funding a short film. You’re making sure stories like this get told. You’re amplifying voices that refuse to be softened. You’re making space for indie filmmakers that dare to EMPOWER.

Will you have something to say with us? 💙🎤

🎟 Donate now & be part of the movement!

#SomethingtoSayFilm #SupportIndieFilm

She's Got Somethin' to Say - Short Film

A short film about showing up authentically when the world wants you to conform.