Testimonials – Sionainn Kelly

My journey with the ReelHeART Festival Group and “SK” continues to be a joy and an amazing learning experience.

I feel my command of screenwriting has taken giant strides and, as a result, my screenplays are placing in multiple competitions.

This is a direct result of SK’s knowledge and influence. Her attention to detail has deepened my understanding of screenwriting craft and art. Her disciplined approach to research and wholesome insights into character development have given my screenplays a maturity which has come from patience and digging deeper.

She continues to boost my confidence and champion my stories. If I achieve any success in this crowded profession of screenwriting, I will always credit the time I have spent with this amazing teacher. Thank you!

Jan – New York, NY

Little did I know what an honor it was to have my first screenplay chosen for mentoring by S.K. from ReelHeART. At the time, I didn’t know much about formatting, as my training in screenwriting had primarily been informal. After reading the first few pages of my script, S.K. recognized that it was based on a true story. As she liked the historical fiction genre, S.K. agreed to mentor me.

After many corrections and learning the basics of screenwriting to bring my script up to industry standards, S.K. helped me to develop my story, plot, and tone. I’m sure there were times when she was on the verge of tearing her hair out trying to help me, but we both persevered, and I now have an excellent screenplay.

In addition, the group class that S.K. taught was very informative, teaching us to understand the tone and audience for our screenplays (my target audience was younger than I thought). She covered screenwriting fundamentals, including structure pillars and key points of attack. Then she taught us the importance of having a One-Sheet, a crucial marketing and pitching tool. Lastly, S.K. covered entering screenwriting contests and showed us how to use FilmFreeway, discussing InkTip as well.

Before mentoring, my screenplay, “The Girl with the Dark Red Hair,” was a Semifinalist in the Glendale International Film Festival. Since mentoring, it has moved up to the highest category, Selected, in the Screaming Ostrich and the Las Vegas International Film and Screenwriting Festival. I’d like to win an award in 2026 when I submit my final edited copy with its new title, Wildflower Awakening, as suggested by S.K.

These achievements could not have been possible without S.K.’s patience, guidance, and mentorship. Hopefully, we can watch it together on the big screen one day.

Thanks to everyone who made this mentorship possible. I’m in a much better place because of it.

Kudos to S.K.

Carole – Author and Screenwriter

There is no simple way to quantify the tremendous value SK brought to my writing during our mentorship.

Their guidance went far beyond offering notes on formatting or structure, even that alone would have exceeded the expectations of many in a mentor role.

What set SK apart was their ability to view my screenplay with fresh eyes, identify opportunities I hadn’t seen and offer thoughtful solutions that elevated the work into a stronger, more compelling prospect for potential producers.

SK approached each session with patience, curiosity, and a genuine commitment to both craft and discovery.

Their support and clarity of insight consistently illuminated the path forward.

This mentorship has had a profound impact on my writing and stands among my most cherished learning experiences.

Now that this screenplay is complete, I will continue applying the methods and practices SK shared as I revise another script still striving to reach its full potential.

It is often said that good teachers demonstrate, but great teachers inspire. SK has unquestionably inspired me to stretch, refine, and grow into the most authentic version of my creative voice.

Craig – Los Angeles / Cleveland

Do you want to write a movie but don’t know where to start? Maybe you’re already an accomplished screenwriter who’s just feeling “stuck”? The ReelHeART Writers Group is for everyone and anyone, no matter who you are, where you live, or what part of your story you are looking to “level up.” What a delightful experience it has been to be a part of this incredibly diverse, kind, and experienced group of writers this year! People from all over the world participate in the magical weekly collaboration and everyone gets “their turn.” The room is led by award-winning screenwriter and filmmaker Shannonn Kelly (with FOUR ‘N’s). Shannonn donates not only her time and wisdom, but also, really cares about her students and the writing. In the world of filmmaking, there are so many people who “talk the talk” – but not everybody walks the walk. Shannonn is a rare and special gem of a person who does both. It’s inspiring to be around a leader who truly cares about the art and future of film, as well as her burgeoning screenwriters. How many of you are living with a story you want to write and just have never put the idea into words? If you are ready to take the next step and get REAL advice to make your dream a reality- don’t walk but RUN – to the ReelheART writers room. It’s a welcoming place where you (and your story) can grow, create, and ultimately finish a polished script with an expert, no BS, award-winning coach alongside a wonderful group of fellow writers. It’s up to you to decide. It’s hands down one of the best decisions I have done for my career. My scripts have won! Thank you Shannonn!

Christina – California

Since I’ve started working with Sionainn I can see a vast improvement in my storytelling, structure and formatting. I’ve learned more from her than I learned while I was completing my MFA in Screenwriting. I recommend Sionainn for any script consultation need. Thank you for everything that you’ve done.

Jared – Ohio

“Shannonn has been extremely helpful in my learning the intricacies of screenwriting. My wife and I both gained valuable knowledge from her online workshops. She is a terrific host and navigates the sometimes challenging arena of online conference calls with grace, allowing everyone on the call to be heard and to receive her invaluable feedback.”

Dusty – Texas

A rare human; Sionainn/Shannonn Kelly I joined Clubhouse as a first-time screenwriter to find a tribe and get a 2nd opinion on my screenplay. Simple as it may seem, it proved impossible. Not for a lack of industry professionals, but a lack of sincerity of purpose. Most presented themselves as willing facilitators, but seemed more disguised in a popularity and ego contest, rather than synergy. After a couple of struggling months, then came the diamond amidst the dirt, Shannonn. She heard me and presented me with exactly what I needed and more. A tribe, and a structure. Her selflessness is invaluable, and a testament piece to the ReelHeART Festival Group. I am motivated by her weekly now to get my screenplay to feature, so I can repay her indulgence. Thank you Shannonn, a recherché human.

Heart, Koye – Nigeria

Shannonn has been a multi-award Award winning Screenwriter and director for many years, and as such has been an active member of the film community here in Toronto and in the USA. She’s a great director and Mentor to young kids with an interest in filmmaking. She’s great on set too. Efficient. Collaborative. She’s created many films and fascinating documentaries. Shannonn Kelly’s work is tireless, and she is well recognized within the Toronto film scene as mentoring spirit.

Cheryl – Canada

I respect Shannonn Kelly — as an administrator, as a creative artist, as a mentor, as a supporter of the arts, as a woman of integrity who gets things done. I know I am not alone in this. Over the years of her involvement at the ReelHeART International Film and Screenplay Festival, she has supported the development and the careers of thousands of people from Ontario, across Canada, and around the world.

Drea – Germany, Canada

I’m an award winning filmmaker. I thought I knew it all. Then when I focused on writing my own scripts and entered them into competitions apparently I knew nothing. One night on Clubhouse I heard this marvelous woman who was asked to speak by one of the moderators. I thought here we go again. Someone who drones on and on about their accomplishments but you Google them and can’t find a damn thing. This fantastic woman (with an amazing voice) built her career from the ground up working on all types of sets in indie film and some Hollywood stuff. Eventhough she was a film school grad, she said ON SET is the best education to help you really understand what your place might be in the film industry. It gives you deep understanding about everyone’s jobs and how much time and dedication is needed to succeed. Then the mod asked her to talk more about her screenwriting awards. She did not. Instead she gave an impromptu MASTER CLASS on Screenwriting for Beginners to Industry Pros like me. The room went wild for another 3 hours until past 4 in the morning with audience questions and her batting answers out of the park like Babe Ruth! She invited everyone to her free group session. I went. Now I do private (paid) sessions with her. My scripts WIN now and I owe it all to Sionainn / Shannonn (for those of us that don’t know how to pronounce her name). What an AMAZING and inspiring Person! And a kind soul.

Tom – California

ShaNNoNN Kelly where have you been all my life! My scripts are winning! I write like a Beast just as you said I would. I could never have imagined I’m now a Screenwriter with Representation!! I owe it all to you. Forever blessed. You’re Brilliant.

Peter – United Kingdom

Shannonn’s grassroots approach to supporting talent has resulted in new talent constantly being discovered as a result of ReelHeART in that same way we were when she chose to screen our first feature when nobody else would. We are always impressed with who we meet and what we see at ReelHeART all these years later. It’s a tribute to Shannonn’s devotion to independent cinema and the championing of the “little people”.

Jason & Brett – Canada

Sionainn is an excellent mentor, I’ve learned so much about how to write effectively in a variety of literary circumstances and beyond. The class she actively engaged in brought me a sense of consciously reconstructing my thought process for writing my web content to its fullest potential while cutting unnecessary “fluff” out of the production process. I have learned the difference between great writing and great writing effectively. I cannot possibly write enough about the level of gratitude I have for her genuine desire to pour her wisdom into the class and our projects. She has definitely inspired me to push through my own boundaries and have the writing confidence to create my first web series in a completely innovatively creative way. I have no doubt that Sionainn has answers to my future questions as she is this walking encyclopedia for professional writing in so many scenarios, truly a living, writing legend.

Jeya – Southern California

She’s amazing! I hope Shannonn hosts podcasts we can all learn from. What great voice and so intelligent ! Thank you! All the best.

Henry – DC

Shannonn is the most amazing tutor. Her passion and vast knowledge for the subject of screenwriting has inspired me over the months to keep my creative writing juices flowing. Her classes are fun, and I have learnt so much from her. I have my first screenplay win ever.

Amelya – London, UK

Shannonn Kelly is a brilliant writing coach. She had helped me hugely in completing my first ever screenplay for a TV Pilot which has won numerous screenplay competition awards. She is diligent and patient, hugely supportive and unwavering in her quest for improvement. She has helped me individually and in writers’ groups. She has also been supportive in my ascent up the acting career ladder. The ReelHeART live reads and special events have improved my acting significantly. Shannonn is a star and a godsend for everyone who is lucky enough to connect with her. Thank you Shannonn!

Jim – Canada

After taking many expensive screenwriting classes that I didn’t end up learning much, I was skeptical when Shannonn invited me to her “free” screenwriting class on Zoom after hearing her on ClubHouse. However, within the first 30 mins, I was quickly convinced and already learned a ton. Her students vary from someone who is interested in getting into screenwriting, to seasoned writer who have awards and credits. Shannonn takes the time to get to know her students, she is extremely knowledgeable and gives personalized and constructive feedback to each and everyone in her workshops. Her class teaches the business of screenwriting, as well as the craft of screenwriting. My favorite part is the real-time script editing, sometimes a little tweak from Shannonn and our fellow students, can instantly elevate the script before our eyes. I recommend her class to all levels of screenwriters.

Bernice – California

Thank you SK for both your mentoring and the lively ReelHeART Writers Group you provide. The workshop is a supportive online community for aspiring screenwriters. SK allows you to realize your strengths with each training session. Her industry expertise is invaluable because she lays the groundwork for industry standards, makes you think and holds you accountable. Since beginning my screenplay writing with you, I’ve learned to improve my writing and have a greater appreciation for the business aspect of the film industry. I’m grateful because you are one-of-a-kind.

Sueanne – Trinidad, Canada