Our Team

At Oyate Partners, our strength comes from our people. Each member of our team brings lived experience, professional expertise, and a shared commitment to advancing tribal sovereignty. Together, we combine backgrounds in governance, law, public affairs, and community development to serve tribal nations with integrity and purpose.

We understand that meaningful consulting begins with trust — listening to the needs of each nation and crafting solutions that reflect both tradition and innovation. Our work is not just professional; it is personal. Every project, partnership, and policy recommendation is guided by respect for our culture, our communities, and the generations to come.

Christian Skunk, MPA

Cante Waste Wicasa - "Good Hearted Man"

Co-Founder: Senior Policy and Strategy Advisor

Kul Wicasa Oyate - Lower Brule Sioux Tribe

Christian Skunk is a Native leader dedicated to strengthening tribal sovereignty and building effective governance and policy systems across Indian Country. He holds a Master of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a Minor in Business Administration, and he is currently pursuing his Juris Doctorate at the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law.

Christian brings hands-on experience as a former Tribal Council Member and County Commissioner, where he worked on governance reform, community development, and intergovernmental affairs. Beyond elected office, he has served on multiple nonprofit and community boards focused on education, cultural preservation, and economic growth — experience that reflects his lifelong commitment to public service and leadership.

Through Oyate Partners, Christian combines his legal and public administration background to help tribal nations design effective policies, strengthen institutions, and advance self-determination. Guided by respect for traditional values and a vision for sustainable tribal governance, he continues to build partnerships that honor sovereignty and empower communities.

Community Leadership & Board Service

Christian’s leadership journey reflects a deep commitment to tribal governance, nonprofit growth, and community development across South Dakota and Indian Country. He continues to serve in roles that bridge culture, policy, and strategy.

Current Roles

Trustee - Dakota Indian Foundation
Executive Secretary - Lower Brule Commission on Gaming
Vice-President - South Dakota Native Tourism Alliance

Previous Roles

Council Member - Lower Brule Tribal Council
County Commissioner - Lyman County Commission
Treasurer - Lower Brule Fair and Powwow Committee
Board Member - Kul Wicasa Wopasi (formerly Lower Brule Research)
Board Member - South Dakota Discovery Center
Board Member - South Dakota Urban Indian Health

Mckayla Estes

Waunsila Win - "Compassion for All"

Co-Founder: Senior Community Engagement Advisor

Kul Wicasa Oyate - Lower Brule Sioux Tribe

Mckayla is a dedicated community leader who has built her career on connecting people and systems to better serve families and youth. As Co-Founder and Senior Community Engagement Advisor for Oyate Partners she brings experience working directly at the intersection of schools, tribal programs, and the justice system to strengthen communication, coordination, and trust.

Before co-founding Oyate Partners, Mckayla served as the Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club, leading youth development initiatives that emphasized mentorship and community involvement. She has also worked closely within the education system, acting as a bridge between schools, tribal governments, and the courts to ensure families receive the support and advocacy they need.

At Oyate Partners, Mckayla leads efforts in community engagement, interagency coordination, and organizational development. Her work is guided by compassion, accountability, and a commitment to building relationships that help communities heal, grow, and thrive.

Community Leadership & Service

Mckayla’s leadership reflects her dedication to youth, families, and community well-being within the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. She brings a compassionate and collaborative approach to her work, grounded in her active involvement with local programs that promote culture, health, and connection.

Current Roles

Member - Lower Brule Wani Wacin ("I want to live") Suicide Prevention Team
Member - Lower Brule Child Protection Team
Member - Lower Brule Interagency Team
Member - Lower Brule Fair and Powwow Committee

Previous Roles

Member - Kul Wicasa Wopasi (Formerly Lower Brule Research)

Sarah Kills in Water

Co-Founder: Senior Community Development Advisor

Sicangu - Rosebud Sioux Tribe

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