South River High Senior Wins WJZ's Black History Oratory Competition

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- She came and she conquered, becoming the winner of WJZ's 23rd annual Black History Month Oratory Competition.

Marcus Washington has more on the winner, and the excitement from her family.

"I had prepared by going in with confidence. I went in there and I set a goal for myself, and my goal was top three," WJZ Oratory winner Partis Walker said.

But it was first place South River High School senior Paris Walker achieved.

She, along with 17 other talented and creative high school students, competed in WJZ's 23rd annual Black History Month Oratory Competition--part of our continuining community commitment.

"I feel great. It's very exciting. The whole experience was great for me. I gained a lot of confidence. It was just a success," said Walker.

Spending time with Paris and her family, you realize something quickly--she is a talented young lady--she can also play piano.

Her parents say they couldn't be more proud of her recent accomplishments.

"Every child there did well, but for me to see her actually claim the prize, to see the fulfillment of all her hard work was just awesome," said Tamara Walker, mother.

"She didn't surprise me that she did so well. I was just surprised at how well she remembered all the words. It was exciting to see that," said Kevin Walker, father.

Paris says it's her family that helps push her through any obstacles, and it's that love that she has that can help her achieve anything she puts her mind to.

"Because nothing will get in the way of my dreams," she said during her speech.

Paris plans to attend Temple University in the fall. She says she hopes to become a doctor one day--just like her mother.

The top three winners of the oratory competition received prizes and scholarships from sponsors Toyota Financial Services, McDonald's, Enoch Pratt Free Library and the Reginald F. Lewis Museum.