NATCHEZ — Travez Bradford is using his musical talents to inspire those around him.

The 2014 Natchez High School graduate and Copiah Lincoln Community College student will travel to Washington, D.C., in January to perform his self-written and recorded song, “Believe, Dream, Inspire.”

Bradford, 19, submitted his song in the Mississippi PRA State Reflections Art competition, where he went on to receive awards at the local, state and national levels of the competition.

Bradford wrote “Believe, Dream, Inspire” earlier this year. During his writing process, Bradford discovered meaning behind his lyrics.

“I entered the PTA contest because of the money at first, but when it came down to it, I saw people in need,” Bradford said. “The state test was coming around that time, and most people were worried. But if you believe in yourself and keep your head up, you have no reason to doubt.”

Bradford thought about his fellow students while writing the song, hoping to spread encouragement through his lyrics.

Bradford said he once put himself down, but the message of the song pushes people to keep going, even when things are hard.

“I used to be the person that doubted myself,” Bradford said. “If I didn’t see it being done, I wouldn’t do it. Once I started to believe in myself and discovered I was capable, I started doing more.”

Bradford recorded the song in his grandfather’s, Michael Barfield, studio.

The trip to D.C. may be Bradford’s first, but Bradford has performed in front of many individuals, leaving no room for nervousness.

“My love for music helps inspire me,” Bradford said. “I have several people in my life who inspire me as well.”

Bradford’s goal is to one day become a successful gospel rapper and spread the message of God through his music.

“If people come to D.C., I hope it touches them to where they can see a change,” Bradford said. “If I can help make the world a better place then that’s what I’m here for.

Bradford encourages his peers to never give up, keep an eye on what’s ahead and to look at obstacles as something they can overcome.