Humans of RCL FOODS: Saras Naicker – A heart for animals and a life of compassion

Meet Saras Naicker, one of the remarkable humans who make RCL FOODS the extraordinary place it is. Since joining the company 13 years ago, Saras has progressed from a Maintenance Clerk to Senior Risk Control Officer, all while nurturing a deep passion for animals and a profound commitment to her community.

Through hard work and dedication, she has not only built a fulfilling career but also fostered meaningful connections with her colleagues. “RCL FOODS isn’t just a workplace; it’s a community where we support one another,” she shares. “The opportunities for growth are endless, and the people are what make it so special.”

But Saras’s impact extends beyond her work. During their daily commute to work, she and her husband noticed a group of about ten cats sitting near a shrub in a vacant lot. Their hearts were drawn to these vulnerable creatures, and they began stopping to feed them. “At first, it was just a quick stop on our way back from the office,” she recalls. “But as we kept seeing them, we knew we had to help. It started as a small gesture, but it has grown into something much bigger.”

Determined to make a difference, Saras began bringing food to the cats, buying cat food from the RCL FOODS staff shop with her own money and dedicating her afternoons to ensuring they were nourished. “These cats are often overlooked, but they deserve love and care just like any other animal,” she explains. “By feeding them, I hope to give them a better chance at life.”

Through her kindness, Saras has formed a bond with these resilient creatures, taking the time to care for them and ensure they’re safe and fed. Recognising the importance of controlling the feral cat population, Saras has also used her own funds to help sterilise some of the cats in the community. “I wanted to make a lasting difference,” she shares. “Sterilisation helps prevent overpopulation and gives these cats a better quality of life.” Her dedication to their well-being reflects her belief that every life is valuable and worth protecting.

Her commitment to the feral cat community mirrors the compassion she brings to her work at RCL FOODS. In both spheres, she believes in the importance of nurturing and growing what matters—whether that’s for people or animals. “It’s not just about making a living; it’s about making a difference,” she states. “Every small act of kindness adds up, and I’ve seen that firsthand.”

This spirit of giving back took on special significance during a challenging time in her life when her husband was diagnosed with cancer. Before his diagnosis, their cat, Orange, began to sit on his stomach, something he had never done before. It was shortly after this that they discovered he had cancer, almost as if Orange sensed something was wrong and was trying to offer comfort and support. Throughout his treatment, Orange became a vital source of companionship. “he would curl up next to him, offering silent support,” Saras remembers. “In those difficult moments, it was clear just how powerful the love of an animal can be. he brought us both so much comfort.” Saras currently has two other cats, Sootica and Tiger, that she lovingly refers to as her children, further illustrating her deep love for animals.

The lessons of compassion that she learned during this time have inspired Saras to continue extending her care beyond her immediate circle. “I’ve learned that it’s essential to look out for those who need help, whether they have two legs or four,” she says. “That’s what drives me every day.”

Her journey at RCL FOODS has been marked by resilience, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to her community. “I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here, and I want to use what I’ve learned to uplift both the people and the animals around me,” she shares. “I believe we all have a role to play in making the world a better place.”

Saras’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from compassion and the impact one person can have on both their community and the lives of animals. “At RCL FOODS, we’re not just Growing What Matters for people – we’re also providing nutrition and care for the animals who bring so much joy and companionship to our lives.” Saras reflect with a smile.