Young people who have made an outstanding contribution to Manx culture and island life in 2020 and 2021 will be recognised this summer by the North American Manx Association.

The North American Manx Awards cover a range of subjects including Manx language, music and art and are largely focussed on children under the age of 18.

Other awards will celebrate people who have made an outstanding contribution to Manx culture and their community and those who have overcome a disability to make a difference.

Nominations are now open and can be downloaded here, or obtained by emailing [email protected] or calling Frances Cowin or Shelley Moffitt on 01624 693830/6.

They can also be posted to the DESC directly at Professional Development Centre, School Lane, Santon, IM4 1EG.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, May 7 and the winners will receive a specially minted medal at the Tynwald building in Douglas on Friday, July 9.

The awards have previously been described as a ’traditional high point’ in the education calendar.

Minister for Education, Sport and Culture Dr Alex Allinson, said: ’It has been a tough year for everyone and these awards are a great way to recognise the endeavours and achievements of our young people and their contribution to island life and Manx culture.’

Enterprise Minister Laurence Skelly, a former president of the North American Association, will present two awards for students of the Manx language.

Minister Skelly said: ’Recognising your heritage and culture gives a sense of unity and belonging.

During these challenging times it is more important than ever we acknowledge our young people who have contributed so hugely within our island community.’

The awards have been run each year since 1978, when the convention of the North American Manx Association assembled at Rocky River, Ohio, and resolved to spend $1000 on a project to commemorate the Millennium of Tynwald in 1979.

It has chapters across the continent in places like Washington DC, Chicago, San Diego, Cleveland, Ohio, Galva, Illinois, Vancouver, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Northern California.

The full categories are: Manx music, Art and crafts that portray any aspect of Manx life or culture, Manx language, Outstanding contribution to Manx culture by a student under 18, over 18 and a group of under 25s, Outstanding contribution to the community and Overcoming disability to contribute to the community.