The Multicultural Student Association (MSA) at Mississippi College is starting a new endeavor—fashion modeling. The association’s program, called Code Gold, was created and is led by MSA Vice President Travis Jefferson.
The MC student created the group after noticing there were no on-campus opportunities for creative expression through fashion. “I saw something that we didn’t have at MC, which was fashion,” Jefferson said. “[There were] no majors or minors, and I wanted something where faith can be represented through fashion.”
The group began modeling on campus with its first shoot in August. According to the models, Code Gold is more than just styling clothes. The group’s mission statement says in part, “Code Gold is more than a model squad; we represent Christ, culture, and confidence while providing a community of spirituality that can coexist within.”
Jefferson recalled that starting the fashion squad took time, effort, and strategic planning. The group’s founder transferred from Hinds Community College with a degree in fashion design. After changing schools, Jefferson wanted to bring some of his previous experience to Mississippi College. “I knew I had to wait for the right time and for God to open the door for me. I gained so many leadership skills through waiting and being a leader in different groups,” Jefferson said.
Jefferson has held several leadership positions during his time at Mississippi College. He was part of the MC Chapel team and event coordinator for the MSA during his junior year at the university. He also represented the group in the MC Student Government Association. Now, as a senior, Jefferson is the vice president of the MSA and the leader of Code Gold.
According to the group, Code Gold was created to tie faith into fashion, promote creativity in leadership, and provide a safe space for minority groups on campus. “We are a judgment-free zone,” Jefferson said.
Code Gold has 30 models this semester. Jefferson plans to use the modeling squad as a way to promote his fashion brand, the Haus of Excellence. The models will showcase Jefferson’s line in their upcoming shoots.
The group plans several events and wants to interact beyond MC. Jefferson explained his interest in collaborating with nearby fashion businesses. “I would love to work with other boutiques in the area and have my line featured in their stores,” Jefferson said. “We would also support and model their clothes as well.”
Jefferson created the modeling squad not only to give models a place to express themselves but also to create opportunities to grow in their relationship with Christ. “We are lit by heaven, not by hype,” Jefferson said. “People are often hyped by other people, we are lit by what Jesus did for us, and we show that through our modeling.”
The senior expressed his excitement for future Code Gold events. Jefferson plans to incorporate his modeling shows with photo shoots and pop-up shops, which he hopes will engage attendees. “We want to engage with the student body and staff here at MC, and we also want them to engage with us,” Jefferson said.
Jefferson urges other students to continue trying new experiences. He said that MC students are the reason new ideas come to the school. “I was driven by something that I didn’t see here,” Jefferson said. “I influence people to go against the grain; it can be different. Just keep pushing through.”
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