Malad’s own Braylee Price represented Oneida County with grace, talent, and enthusiasm at the Idaho State Distinguished Young Women (DYW) Program, held October 10th and 11th in Idaho Falls. Braylee joined 36 of the top young women from across the state for a week filled with service, learning, and unforgettable experiences.

The participants arrived in Idaho Falls the Sunday before the competition to begin rehearsals, learn their onstage routines, and take part in service projects throughout the community. Over the course of the week, the girls built lasting friendships and prepared for three onstage performances showcasing their skills in Talent, Self Expression, and Fitness.

The DYW program recognizes excellence in five key categories: Scholastic, Interview, Talent, Self Expression, and Fitness. The Scholastic and Interview portions make up 50% of each participant’s overall score, while the remaining 50% comes from Talent, Self Expression, and Fitness.

Braylee’s hard work and dedication shone brightly as she was named a finalist in both the Fitness and Self Expression categories, and she was also honored with the “Be Your Best Self” Award—a recognition given to participants who exemplify the DYW spirit of personal growth, leadership, and integrity.

Reflecting on her experience, Braylee shared:

“What a week! I’m so glad I got to have this opportunity to represent Malad! I have learned so much this week. Not wanting to go, it was all worth it in the end—one of the best weeks of my life. I made so many friends and met so many amazing, beautiful, talented, and smart young women. I just wanted to thank everyone who supported me and believed in me when I didn’t—my family, friends, and leaders who were there for me, and especially my mom and dad for being here for me no matter what! I left with $2,100 of scholarship money, one heck of an experience, and friendships I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.”

At the conclusion of the event, Kallie Stoddard of Grace was named the overall Idaho Distinguished Young Woman and will go on to represent Idaho at the National DYW Program in Mobile, Alabama.

Braylee Price took over as DYW for Oneida County from 2025 DYW Madelyn Shaw, who was preceded by the previous winner,  Alexus Tarbet.  Tarbet was the winner of the Talent portion of the competition at the state level, and a state finalist.  She was preceded by Raegan Smith, who was named the state first alternate for 2023.  Malad’s participants have had a lot of success at the state level, due in no small part to the support of the local organization, chaired by Nikki Schawrtz, and the backing of many individuals and groups throughout the community.  

The community is proud of Braylee for her accomplishments and the positive way she represented Malad and Oneida County. Her dedication, confidence, and kind spirit truly embody the values of the Distinguished Young Women program.

Founded in 1958, Distinguished Young Women is a free program that encourages participants to reach their full individual potential. Our mission is to empower young women by providing over $1 billion in scholarship opportunities, connecting with a nationwide network of women, developing their self-confidence, and participating in our Life Skills Workshops that prepare them for success after high school.