From Abu Dhabi's 'Nominate your hero' initiative to Rajapaksa's return to Sri Lanka, our editors comment on the top stories of September 3

Who's your hero?: A window has opened up to allow us, all members of society in the UAE, to nominate our heroes, those who have made a difference in our lives, for the Abu Dhabi Awards, the emirate’s highest civilian honour, held under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed. Organisers have made the nomination process seamless – just visit the AbuDhabiAwards website and click on the ‘Nominate Now’ highlighted link right on top of the page. The deadline is October 15. This is a chance to honour the men and women who are bringing us happiness and wellbeing in myriad ways. (By Faisal Masudi, Assistant Editor)

Rajapaksa returns. What next for Sri Lanka?: In April, Sri Lankan protesters started camping outside the president’s office in Colombo and chanted “Gota, go home,’’ a demand for Gotabaya Rajapaksa, to quit, which quickly became the rallying cry of the movement and led to dismantling of the Rajapaksa family’s grip on politics. On July 13, the ousted leader, his wife and two bodyguards left aboard an air force plane for the Maldives, before travelling to Singapore from where he officially resigned. He flew to Thailand two weeks later. After seven weeks he is back in the country. On Saturday, Rajapaksa faced calls for his arrest. Now the question is whether he will be held accountable and prosecuted for what he did to country? If not, will the people take to the streets to demonstrate again? Only time will tell. [By Stephen N.R., Senior Associate Editor]

Powerhouse actress and activist: US veteran actress Jane Fonda is fighting cancer again. The 84-year-old says she has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which is very treatable. Fonda earlier had a tumour removed from her breast in 2010, and has also had skin cancer. Apart from her movies, Fonda is known for being a long-time activist, and even said that her cancer won’t deter her from talking about climate change. It’s inspiring to see someone of her age and influence still care deeply about the world outside the Hollywood bubble, all while fighting cancer. The hope is that she recovers quickly and continues her good work. [By Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor - Features]

Serena Williams’ career over after Tomljanovic defeat: Serena Williams lost against Ajla Tomljanovic and not only said goodbye to the US Open but also her glittering career in tennis. The American, who turns 41 this month, was beaten in a thrilling encounter by the Australian 7-5 6-7 (4-7) 6-1 and was in tears at the end. It was her final singles match ending a 27-year professional career that brought 23 major titles. She was overcome with emotion when she was interviewed in the middle of the court and thanked her family, the packed Arthur Ashe stadium and her fans all over the world for their support over the years. (By Imran Malik, Assistant Sports Editor)