Mela is best known for her role as Emma in the short indie drama Split Costs. The story is based on two young women from disparate backgrounds who share a ride to western Massachusetts where traumatic setbacks force each to make pivotal decisions at an unforeseen crossroads. The film won Best Screenplay at the 2016 Destiny City Film Festival, Best Drama and Best Overall at the 2016 Women's Only Entertainment Film Festival, as well as an Audience Choice Award at the 2016 Bluestocking Film Series. It was also a Finalist at both Los Angeles CineFest, and Mosaic World Film Festival.