I've never worked anywhere else because Perutnina Ptuj has become my family by extension. I came here as a young, still undeveloped individual, learning and maturing. I've performed all kinds of jobs, worked in all the production units, and nothing has ever been too difficult for me to do. There was always a positive energy that kept us going into the next day. The biggest motivation comes from a good leader who listens, motivates, offers advice and understands. In all these decades, I've never encountered a more effective formula.

It would mean the world to us to have the manager come and praise us. That's what counts! The Managing Director, Enver Šišić, still acknowledges me and greets me when I arrive at the production site. A lot has changed for the better over the last few years, and there is a lot of investment going on. For it to be perfect, so that we’d really be fully motivated, we just need to tweak the pay and rewards system a bit more. This has also been promised. I'm no longer in the union, but I'd like to spend a leisurely day together in the great outdoors, a hike up Donačka for instance, with a Poli sandwich once we reach the top, singing and having a good laugh.

I can't imagine not coming to work every day at Perutnina Ptuj. I consider it my second home, because I've been here since I was 16 years old. My parents also worked here. I am proud to be part of Perutnina. I'm a child of Perutnina. When I look back and look at my life I feel proud – of myself and of my family. I am grateful that I've always had a job where I've felt supported. I had the opportunity to advance, but I was afraid to take the leap. It's not easy to step out of your comfort zone, and perhaps I would have if the opportunity had presented itself earlier. The days when we worked extra hours or on public holidays have been the most memorable for me, but it never felt like a burden. We were always happy, in high spirits, and we even used to sing. It mostly depends on the manager. We always like to spotlight Robert, as he’s the one who takes that leadership role. Without him it wouldn't be the same.

I find it hard to imagine life outside Perutnina Ptuj. My parents worked at Perutnina Ptuj. This is not my first job, it's my second, but somehow I still consider it my first. For my first job, I worked mainly at Perutnina Ptuj, in the feed factory, and over the years I got to know the ropes, the people and the culture of the company. It became ingrained in me. You could say that I'm a child of Perutnina. I am proud to be part of this success story, which is constantly expanding and offering opportunities for both personal and career growth. It happens spontaneously – that's how the system works. The energy we infuse into shaping our work environment, our space, is within our control every day. We work hard to have a supportive, positive, healthy working environment that supports mental and physical health. I am grateful that my co-workers trust me and recognise me as a troubleshooter.