Paris Wilburd, a 16-year-old junior at Sylvan Hills High School in Arkansas, has made remarkable strides in rodeo, becoming the Ladies Barrel Racing Champion and National All Around Cowgirl at the Bill Pickett Invitational rodeo, the only African American touring rodeo association in the U.S. Starting horseback riding at age six and quickly advancing to competition, Paris excels in multiple rodeo events including barrel racing, steer undecorating, pole bending, and goat tying. Despite facing jealousy and subtle discrimination in both predominantly white and Black rodeo circles, she remains motivated by her faith, family, and the desire to represent Black cowgirls, aiming to be the first Black woman to compete and win at the National Finals rodeo.

Beyond competition, Paris embraces the responsibilities of being a cowgirl, caring for her horses and other animals, and balancing rodeo with school sports like track and volleyball. She takes pride in carrying forward the legacy of Black cowboys and cowgirls, emphasizing hard work, humility, and resilience. Paris encourages younger Black girls to persevere and not be discouraged by negativity, embodying a strong role model who blends athleticism, dedication, and cultural pride in her pursuit of rodeo excellence.