WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – Thirteen-year-old Delvyn is an up-and-coming photographer hoping to share an opportunity of a lifetime with his classmates at Gordon Parks Academy.

During a recent trip to the Gordon Parks Museum to celebrate the iconic photographer, writer and film director from Kansas and his namesakes, Gordon Parks Academy teacher Mary Delvecchio noticed there was a photography contest happening.

She submitted photos students took during their efforts in putting together the school yearbook. A week and a half later, Delvecchio said she got the announcement that Delvyn won second place. The runner-up reward includes a trip overseas.

“I didn’t really think I was going to get second place. I really thought it was going to be one of my friends that got to it,” the 13-year-old said.

Delvyn won a trip to Paris, a trip he and Delvecchio hope can include his classmates. The prize isn’t just a vacation package. It’s an educational opportunity that will could students the chance to learn more about their school’s namesake and the impact Gordon Parks left in Europe, cementing himself as an icon on two continents.

“One of the things that you may have heard is that Delvyn has a free ride to Paris. But I have nine to 11 other students that are also wanting to go and are not funded,” Delvecchio said.

So, she’s fundraising to give her other students a chance to share in the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Delvecchio set up a GoFundMe to help raise $35,000 to take 10 other students to Paris to retrace the life and legacy of Kansas native Parks during his time in Europe. Those wishing to contribute to the cause can do so here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/a-journey-to-gordon-parks-legacy-in-paris.

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