How long have you been a member of the Black Health Network, and what drew you to CBHN?

I recently joined the California Black Health Network six months ago because I believe in its mission to advance health equity and improve health outcomes for Black Californians. As a Medicare Broker, I see firsthand how education, access to resources, and advocacy can make a significant difference in people's lives. I wanted to be part of an organization that is actively working to close those gaps and create meaningful change in our communities.

What is your current profession?

I am an Independent Medicare Broker and owner of TAF Insurance Agency. I specialize in helping Medicare beneficiaries understand their healthcare options, including Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, and Prescription Drug Plans. My approach is education-first. I help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage so they can access necessary care while protecting their financial well-being.

I am a U.S. Army Combat Veteran. I served 12 years in the Army, including an 18-month deployment to Iraq during the war. My military service taught me the importance of leadership, service, and putting people first, values that continue to guide my work today.

I am especially passionate about serving the veteran community. As a fellow veteran, I understand many of the challenges veterans face when navigating the healthcare system. Many are unaware that they may have healthcare options beyond the VA, particularly those who did not retire from the military or didn't retain a 100% VA service connected disability rating. I help veterans understand how Medicare and VA benefits work together so they can make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage. My goal is to ensure they have access to the care they need, whether through the VA or civilian providers, while helping them maximize their benefits, avoid coverage gaps, and gain peace of mind about their healthcare future.

From your perspective, what barriers exist in achieving health equity for Black Californians?

One of the biggest barriers is access to clear and accurate healthcare information. Many people do not fully understand their healthcare options, benefits, or available resources. We also see disparities in preventive care, chronic disease management, access to specialists, and trust in the healthcare system. Addressing these challenges requires education, community partnerships, and outreach efforts that meet people where they are.

Both in your work and with CBHN, how have you been able to prioritize the health of Black Californians?

Through my work as a Medicare Broker, I provide complimentary educational workshops and one-on-one consultations to help individuals understand their healthcare coverage and access available benefits. I focus on empowering people with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health. As a member of CBHN, I look forward to supporting initiatives that improve health literacy, expand access to care, and connect Black Californians with resources that can improve their quality of life.

What inspires you to keep doing the work you do?

The people I serve inspire me every day. Many of my clients are navigating Medicare for the first time and are often overwhelmed by the process. Seeing the relief on someone's face when they finally understand their options and feel confident in their healthcare decisions reminds me why this work matters. Knowing that I can make a positive impact on someone's health and future keeps me motivated.

What's the bravest thing you've ever done?

Serving in combat during the Iraq War is probably the bravest thing I've ever done. As a young soldier, I was placed in situations that required courage, resilience, and trust in my training and my team. That experience taught me that bravery isn't the absence of fear, it's moving forward despite it.

What's the best advice you've ever received?

The best advice I've ever received is: "Be bold and don't be afraid to take up space." Too often, people wait until they feel completely ready before pursuing their goals. I've learned that growth happens when you're willing to step outside your comfort zone, trust yourself, and take action even when the path isn't perfectly clear.

What do you hope your legacy will be?
I want to be remembered as someone who dedicated their life to service, Someone who served others with integrity, loyalty, and honor,  both in and out of uniform. Ultimately, as a trusted resource, a servant leader, and someone who left every person and community better than I found them.

Resources:

2026.02.25_Trifold Brochure Medicare 101 Tamare Fluery.pdf

2026.02.22_Halfpage_General_Flyer_RackCard.pdf