Steven Estrada has worked for the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians for 15 years, and as its Tribal Executive Officer since December of 2020 where he oversees all day-to-day operations of Tribal government for Soboba. He was recently named as one of The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development 2025 class of Native American 40 Under 40 Award honorees.
Nominated by their peers, honorees exemplify leadership, initiative, and dedication, making significant contributions to their professions and communities. This year’s awardees were recognized at the Reservation Economic Summit (RES) from March 10–13 at Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.
“Each of these remarkable individuals has shown a commitment to going beyond boundaries to build a bright future for Indian Country,” said Chris James, President and CEO of The National Center. “They join more than 600 past honorees in what has been an increasingly tight-knit and collaborative group.”
Estrada, who is a member of the Santa Rosa Band of Cahuilla Indians in Mountain Center where he serves as Tribal Council Chairman, said he is not one who seeks the spotlight or recognition, so he was blown away when he was notified of his selection.
“Being considered was an honor in itself, but this is so much more than me, because the efforts I am being recognized for are not just for me, but for my Tribe and the Tribe I work for,” he said. “I am incredibly proud of my Tribe, especially my Tribal Council. We have a really good group and have been making huge efforts and steps over the last 15 years: economic development, Tribal governance, and cultural revitalization and preservation.”
Estrada said he is grateful for the amazing support his Tribe receives from the rest of the General Membership. “I am incredibly proud of the work we have done and the work we continue to do; and incredibly thankful and proud of the hard work and dedication our team does, especially our Tribal Administrator, Vanessa Minott,” he said.
He said it was an honor just to be nominated for The National Center’s award but being selected as one of only 40 individuals from across Indian Country was incredible. “What made this really special was that two others from Southern California Tribes were also selected: Savana Saubel, from Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, who I have known for many years, and Lindsey Dollman from the Pechanga Band of Indians,” he said.
Estrada is also thankful for the opportunity and support Soboba has provided to him. As Tribal Executive Officer, he serves to support Tribal leadership, provide recommendations, and execute directives given. “I enjoy being able to grow within the organization with the support of not just leadership but also the more than 300 talented team members that I work with,” he said. “I am proud to be a part of this dynamic organization and doing what I can as they serve its membership and advocate for their Tribe.”
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Chairman Isaiah Vivanco said, “Steven is not only a great administrator, but an outstanding person and I feel honored to call him my friend. His dedication to cultural preservation aligns with my personal goals. I have seen him implement many programs and projects for his Tribe as well as throughout Indian Country that have brought awareness and action to this important subject. Steven is also a remarkable role model for our youth as a goal-driven, passionate, culture-oriented Native American who is accomplishing so much at such a young age.”
Estrada was first elected to the Santa Rosa Band of Cahuilla Indians Tribal Council in 2007. He is now beginning his third term as Chairman, having previously served in roles as Councilmember, Secretary, and Vice Chairman.
Raised at Séwya (original place name for Santa Rosa), Estrada began attending Tribal meetings before he turned 18 so he could observe how the Tribal government functioned. His grandmother was a traditionalist and always involved with cultural activities and Tribal issues. This sparked his interest at a young age, especially when learning about plant usage for basket weaving.
He is passionate about Tribal matters, especially cultural preservation, and is actively involved in traditional activities and practices. Estrada said he is thankful for what he has been taught by his elders, especially his grandmother, Josephine Lubo Modesto from the Cahuilla Reservation.
“Individual Tribal members have a responsibility to the Tribe; it’s not just what the Tribe provides for the individual,” he said. “Each person had a place and purpose in traditional society, so that the Tribe could survive overall. I am forever thankful for the foundation she provided; also thankful for all the sacrifices my mother made not just as a mom, but also as a Councilmember and former Chairwoman for Santa Rosa, always trying to serve the Tribe. And I am also thankful for my husband, Andrew Vallejos, for all the support and encouragement he has shown, and the example he provides of a strong work ethic and dedication that many strive for.”
Lynn R. Valbuena, Chairwoman for Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, said, “I have personally witnessed Chairman Estrada’s growth and development as an elected Tribal leader of the Santa Rosa Cahuilla. As with most Tribal nations, Santa Rosa is in a rural, mountainous area of southern California that provides limited real opportunities and seemingly endless challenges. Despite these conditions, Steven is currently serving his third term as chairman where his leadership is characterized by his vision, commitment, and a strong cultural foundation.”
Estrada holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of California, Riverside and a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of La Verne where he is currently pursuing his law degree, all while working full-time and volunteering for Tribal activities at Santa Rosa and Soboba.
“The 2025 class of Native American 40 Under 40 awardees reflects the depth of talent, dedication, and leadership within our communities,” said Lillian Sparks Robinson, Vice Chair of The National Center’s Board of Directors. “These individuals are shaping the future of Indian Country and setting a powerful example for generations to come.”
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Vice Chairwoman Geneva Mojado said, “As Tribal members and Tribal Council leaders, we always want what is best for our people. It is a great responsibility to make sure we choose the very best people to fill critical roles in our government and we have found no one better than Steven to do this for us. He has proven himself to be an outstanding colleague. He also gets involved in community outreach events through his position with us and interacts with our Tribal members in a friendly, respectful and considerate way.”
Each recipient received free registration to the conference, and Estrada said it was nice to attend the breakout sessions, and general assembly. He said there were several topics that are beneficial to Tribal governments such as leadership, workforce development, partnerships, and Tribal governance.
“This was my third RES Conference,” Estrada said. “NCAIED always provides a well-planned and beneficial array of workshops and breakout sessions that are impactful to Tribes nationwide.”
For more information, www.ncaied.org.
