With an emphasis on futures adaptation, Makaya seeks projects that facilitate the productive symbiosis between nature, the built environment, and human health. She integrates her robust science background into design to create items with a triad focus on utility, well-being, and aesthetics.

Her pursuit is to design items that visually satisfy, while also encompassing delicate consideration for the natural environment. Through her work, Makaya argues that we can return to a symbiosis with our surroundings by embellishing what grows naturally to fit our current needs and desires. She also believes generalists hold increasing value in the future of work.

Makaya has shown work at ClockShop LA, AltaSea, and Forecast Foundation and has collaborated with the following organizations in pursuit of an interdisciplinary future: AltaSeads Conservancy, Homeboy Industries, Homeboy Recycling, Homeboy Threads, Keck Hospital, Keck Medicine, USC Architecture, USC Jimmy Iovine and Andre Young Academy, USC Landscape Futures Lab, and USC Visions and Voices.