[Pictured: Shae Davies from ACCM, School-based Trainee of the Year Nyre Coffee, Maxima CEO Kate Thiele]
Recently crowned Maxima’s School-based Trainee of the Year and a finalist for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year at the recent SA Training Awards, Maxima trainee Nyre is proving that passion, perseverance and pride can open doors.
A proud Kaurna woman, Nyre completed her school-based traineeship with ANZ Gawler, working one day a week during school and full time in the holidays while studying Year 12.
‘I wanted to challenge myself and try something completely different while still at school. I didn’t really know what went on behind the scenes in a bank, but I wanted to understand it and learn how everything worked. It’s been such a valuable experience, and I’ve learned so much more than I expected.’
Balancing school, work and sport pushed her to develop resilience she didn’t know she had. There were times she doubted herself, but with support from her trainers and colleagues, Nyre kept going.
‘There were definitely moments when I wondered if I could keep up with everything. But I’ve had amazing support from my workplace and Maxima. Knowing that people believed in me – and were willing to guide me – really helped.’
Through her Certificate III in Business Administration completed at the Australian College of Commerce and Management (ACCM), Nyre developed skills that went far beyond the classroom, including determination, empathy, and professionalism. Working at ANZ taught her to listen to customers and recognise when people needed help – even if they didn’t ask for it.
‘Not many vulnerable customers will say that they need help, so I’ve learned to really pay attention and check in with them. It’s about understanding their situation and making sure they feel supported. Every interaction is more than just a transaction – it’s an opportunity to make someone’s day a little easier.’
Nyre’s traineeship also strengthened her confidence and understanding of teamwork, and she quickly became a trusted and valued member of her branch, sharing ideas with colleagues to improve workplace processes – including around sustainability. She has also been able to help older customers navigate online banking, patiently guiding them and showing how it could improve their lives.
Being a young Aboriginal woman has also presented challenges, with Nyre facing racism and ageism from some customers. With the support of her team and manager, she has learned to focus on the positive interactions that remind her why she loves what she does. ‘One regular customer comes in every week just to see me – that tells me I’m making a difference.’
Nyre’s commitment to her community is equally strong. As a captain of her junior ice hockey team and a mentor through the South Australian Aboriginal Secondary Training Academy (SAASTA), she leads by example – welcoming new players, encouraging younger students to stay engaged at school, and modelling respectful behaviours.
‘My age doesn’t define my ability to help others. Whether it’s on the ice, at school, or in the workplace, it’s about showing up, giving your best, and supporting the people around you.’
Her cultural connection continues to guide her, from representing her Indigenous ice hockey team to creating art with her aunties and mentoring younger students.
‘My culture keeps me grounded. It reminds me who I am, where I come from, and why it’s important to give back. Being able to connect with my community and share what I’ve learned through my traineeship is something I really value.’
Nyre hopes her story encourages other young people – especially Aboriginal students – to pursue traineeships.
‘Even if you don’t think you’re ready or capable, it’s worth giving it a go. You’ll be surprised by what you can achieve, the people you’ll meet, and the skills you’ll gain along the way. Opportunities like this can really change your life.’
To find out more about Traineeships with Maxima, click here