The One World Centre has organised a cultural showcase to highlight the work of Manx charities which operate overseas, and show the rich cultural diversity of their host countries.

The Festival of Manx Connections will take place at the Villa Marina on Friday and Saturday next week.

The OWC says it's a unique opportunity to gain first hand insight into what life can be like in developing countries with films, photographs music and dance all on display.

Edward Oldham reports (text, below, from attached audio file):

The One World Centre's Cheryl Cousins (pictured) says the emphasis is very much upon celebration, both of the amazing work done by those involved in charities and NGOs and of the support they have received from the Manx public over the years.

The showcase aims to let people know what's going on in the developing world and show them how their donations are used to improve the lives of people living there.

Cheryl says the focus will be awareness raising rather than fundraising.

In addition to the displays, there will be products on sale from the countries the charities operate in and children's workshops, story telling, music and dance throughout Saturday.