An optical connector assembly for connecting a first optical waveguide has at least one core part for transmitting light to a second optical component having a second optical waveguide with at least one core part for transmitting light. A housing has a receptacle extending in an optical axis direction for receiving and holding the first optical waveguide therein and a mating face oriented generally perpendicular to the optical axis along a mating axis. The housing is configured to mate with another connector housing by relative movement of the connector housings along the mating axis. The first optical waveguide is positioned within the receptacle and has a tilting surface along the optical axis. The tilting surface engages the at least one core part and is configured to direct light in a direction generally parallel to the mating axis.
