 On August 10, 2018 Makonnen wrote an op-ed for "True Africa" about political change, national unity, and social progress in Ethiopia.In November 2018, Makonnen and his wife launched Old World/New World Productions, a media company that produces documentaries, feature films, and television shows focused on Africa and the African diaspora.Makonnen met American philanthropist Ariana Austin, daughter of Bobby William Austin, at Pearl nightclub in Washington, D.C. in December 2005.