Sarah Orrett: A Journey of Faith & Service
Long-Serving Public Servant: A Journey of Faith and Service
In the spirit of the "I Am Civil Servant" campaign, we spotlight a remarkable individual, Sarah Orrett, fondly known as Say Say, whose dedication to public service exemplifies commitment and compassion.
With a career spanning over 25 years in the Cayman Islands Civil Service and an impressive 15 years in the private sector, she stands as a beacon of excellence in her role as a Customer Service Officer at the Government Administration Building (GAB). This commitment to world-class earned Sarah the coveted Employee of the Year Award in 2022.
Drawn to Serve
Sarah’s journey began in 1982 when she took her first steps into the Civil Service as a Receptionist at the Glass House. After a period in the private sector, she returned rejoined the Civil Service, feeling drawn back to the environment where her journey started.
Today, she continues to serve at GAB, where her responsibilities include welcoming guests, managing the main government telephone line, and ensuring that every interaction – whether through phone, email, or face-to-face – exceeds expectations. Her role is crucial in upholding the Department of Facilities Management’s mission of clarity and direction for both employees and customers.
Reflecting on her career choice, she shares that her faith has been a guiding force. It inspires her to deliver exceptional customer service, allowing her to create meaningful experiences for the public. She recognised, from the very beginning, that her role extends far beyond administrative duties, and her vibrant personality shone through as she embraced the opportunity to ‘Make Lives Better.’
Kindness at the Heart
For those considering a career in the Civil Service, her advice is clear: It’s one of the best paths you can choose. The organisation not only provides valuable career and educational opportunities but also plays a vital role in making a positive impact on the lives of the people in the Cayman Islands.
Each day, she interacts with individuals from all walks of life, and she understands that many come to her seeking not just answers, but empathy and understanding. This perspective shapes her approach to customer service; she believes in making connections that go beyond the transactional.
In her words: “These are challenging times for everyone, and people come to Reception because they need help. It is incredibly rewarding to be the person who brings a smile to someone’s face, even if we can’t meet all their needs. I always try to remember that people may not remember your name but they will always remember how you made them feel.”
She often shares stories of how a simple smile or kind word can change someone’s day. Her ability to listen and respond with genuine care sets her apart. “I always aim to make the person in front of me feel seen and heard,” she says. “That’s what true service is about.”
A Voice of Praise
A tell-tale sign that Sarah is in the building is the sound of her wonderful singing of praise and worship music to God flowing through the lobby. This passion not only uplifts her spirit but also resonates with many other civil servants, creating connections that go beyond her role at GAB. It’s another way she touches lives, reminding us all of the power of faith and community service.
Lifelong Learning and Growth
Throughout her extensive career, she has embraced opportunities for professional development. The Civil Service has provided her with various training programmes and workshops that have enhanced her skills and knowledge. She believes that continuous learning is essential, not only for personal growth but also for effectively serving the community.
“I encourage everyone in the Civil Service to pursue their educational goals,” she notes. “The more we learn, the better we can serve our community.” She has seen firsthand how investing in oneself can lead to improved services, fostering a culture of excellence.
Celebrating Diversity
Another aspect of her role that she cherishes is the diversity within the Civil Service and the community it serves. She enjoys working alongside colleagues from different backgrounds, each bringing unique perspectives and ideas. This diversity enriches the workplace and enhances the quality of service provided to the public.
“We learn so much from one another,” she explains. “It’s important to celebrate our differences and work together to meet the needs of our community.” Her commitment to inclusivity is evident in the way she interacts with both colleagues and customers, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued.
A Legacy of Service
As she reflects on her career, she expresses gratitude for the many experiences and relationships she has built along the way. She views her role not just as a job but as a legacy of service. “I hope to inspire others, especially young Caymanians, to see the beauty in serving our community,” she says. “Every little act of kindness adds up to something significant.”
In celebrating long-serving public servants like Sarah, we honour the dedication, resilience, and heart that keep our Civil Service thriving. Her journey is a testament to the profound impact one individual can have within the community. It proves that service is not just a job; it’s a calling, and that the Civil Service is not just about policies and procedures; it's about the people who serve and those who are served.
Through her unwavering commitment to excellence and her passion for helping others, Sarah Orrett continues to embody the spirit of world-class public service, inspiring countless individuals along the way.
