‘Sweat, dirt and grape juice – it’s incredibly rewarding’: volunteer harvesting on a vineyard in France

Students and volunteers at Mother Teresa School in Regina recently engaged in a unique cultural activity by stretching a buffalo hide. This hands-on experience not only fosters a connection to Indigenous traditions but also promotes understanding and reconciliation within the community. Such initiatives are vital as they encourage dialogue and respect among diverse groups, making a positive impact on the students' education and personal growth.

In the Khan Younis refugee camp in Gaza, volunteers are stepping up to provide much-needed recreational activities and psychological support for children affected by the ongoing war. These workshops aim to bring moments of joy and a sense of normalcy to the lives of displaced children, helping them cope with the trauma they have experienced. This initiative is crucial as it not only offers a brief escape from their harsh realities but also fosters resilience and hope for a brighter future.

Maunika Gowardhan shares delightful recipes for one-pot mushroom and squash biryani and a savory chunky chilli pumpkin stir-fry, perfect for the squash season. These dishes not only highlight the comforting flavors of autumn but also showcase the vibrant spices and ingredients that make Indian cuisine so beloved. The biryani, with its layers of basmati rice and spices, and the stir-fry, balanced with ginger and jaggery, are sure to warm your heart and palate, making them ideal for cozy gatherings.

Austria is currently in a contentious debate within the EU regarding its request to lift sanctions on shares linked to Oleg Deripaska. The aim is to use these assets to compensate Raiffeisen Bank for its financial losses in Russia. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions within the EU about how to handle sanctions and their economic implications, especially as member states navigate their own financial interests against collective EU policies.

Outgoing French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has expressed optimism about reaching a budget agreement, indicating that there is a strong desire among lawmakers to collaborate. This is significant as it suggests stability in the French government, especially with President Emmanuel Macron's term lasting until May 2027. Lecornu's comments also downplay the likelihood of a snap election, which could disrupt governance and create uncertainty in France.

French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has expressed cautious optimism about the possibility of reaching a budget deal, which could lessen the chances of snap elections in France. This is significant as the country faces its most severe political crisis in decades, and a resolution could stabilize the political landscape. As Lecornu prepares to update President Emmanuel Macron on the situation, insights from experts like Renaud Foucart highlight the importance of these discussions for the future of French governance.

The Women's Cricket World Cup match between Australia and Pakistan is underway at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, and the weather is perfect for a thrilling game. With play starting at 10:30 am BST, fans are excited to see how the teams perform. This match is significant as it showcases women's cricket on a global stage, promoting the sport and inspiring future generations of female athletes.

Recent talks between Hamas and Israeli negotiators, facilitated by Qatari officials and U.S. representatives, have led to the exchange of lists concerning hostages and prisoners. This development is significant as it reflects ongoing efforts to establish a ceasefire and address humanitarian concerns in Gaza, marking a crucial step in the complex negotiations following the conflict that erupted two years ago.

Former President Donald Trump has launched a scathing attack on Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, claiming they should face jail time for failing to protect ICE officers. This comes as Texas National Guard troops are deployed to Illinois, intensifying the political tension between Republican and Democratic leaders. Trump's comments highlight the ongoing national debate over immigration enforcement and local governance, making it a significant moment in the political landscape.