​Jane Manning’s dedication to making people culturally aware has seen her nominated for a Pride of Gloucestershire Community Award.

Jane helped set up World Jungle, based on the first floor of Dursley Library.

The project aims to develop cultural awareness and the understanding of issues of identity and diversity through music, dance, play, theatre, art and the environment.

Jane, 44, was nominated by Churchil Audi, who has worked with her on a number of projects.

He said: “Jane has been part of a project to identify successful models of engaging with African Caribbean communities in Gloucester, running activities and getting hundreds of residents together.

“She has forged successful partnerships between funders, other service providers, creating sustainable partnerships and a forum which now meets quarterly to discuss future plans.

“As a result, the African- Caribbean community now feels safer and are willing to come out and be heard.”

Jane has been nominated in the Community Project category of the Pride of Gloucestershire Awards, launched by the Echo and its sister title, The Citizen.

Now in their fourth year, there are seven categories to choose from – Local Hero, Brave Heart Hero, Community Project, Caring Hero, Environmental Hero, Public Sector Hero, and for the first time Volunteer Hero.

Jane said: “I was really surprised. It’s a great honour. World Jungle is a not-for-profit organisation which aims to raise awareness of other cultures and bring them together through different mediums.

“We’ve held a black history event and run an African-Caribbean project with funding help from Adult Education.

“It’s amazing what can be achieved when people get together and we’re always working on the next thing.”

A glitzy award ceremony will take place at Gloucester Rugby, Kingsholm, on June 25 when 2010’s winners will be announced.