A Local Business Providing Solutions for Indigenous Communities
Supporting you with research/visibility services & solar technology!
Team YKD
We are a mom + pop business based out of Tsaile, Arizona. We are educators, activists, and writers with big dreams to change the economic and political landscape of the Navajo Nation. We love critical thinking, conversations around campfires, good coffee and solar tech! We have over 10 years of experience providing support services to individuals, organizations and small businesses on tribal lands and in indigenous communities.
Adrian Lerma (Diné)
Adrian is the Executive Director of Yahuaca Knowledge Distribution. She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Northern Arizona University, majoring in Women’s and Gender Studies and minoring in Applied Indigenous Studies. She has a background in program development and management, and brings over 10 years of experience in the nonprofit sector to her work. With experience in marketing, fundraising, strategic planning and public relations, she is a skilled project manager and event coordinator. Adrian is a co-founder of the Navajo Women’s Energy Project (Est. 2012) and the Native American Business Incubator Network (Est. 2014). Through these roles, she has acquired skills in social media marketing, brand development, website management, community outreach and grassroots organizing.
Michael Lerma (P’urhépecha)
Michael is the Director of Research and Development for Yahuaca Knowledge Distribution. He is an Associate Professor and Dean of the School of Business and Social Science at Diné College. He received his doctorate from the University of Arizona from the department of American Indian Studies. His recent research explores the efficacy of traditional Diné (Navajo) institutions of governance. He teaches courses on International Relations, Tribal Government, Native American Politics, and Research Methods. Michael’s research generally advocates for future Native Nation building via consolidation of indigenous interests and expansion of Native Nation control of norms within the international political economy.
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