Interview with Amir Ribić
Ajla Dizdarevic
Amir Ribić is a licensed insurance agent with a focus on Medicare. He graduated from Henry Ford College in 2014 with a degree in business administration and management. Later, he played soccer in Bosnia for Mostar’s club. Currently, he lives in Michigan, ensuring Medicare is accessible to Bosnian community members.
Can you describe your occupation, including your title, industry, duties, and the impact your actions have in your field?
As a licensed insurance agent, my role focuses on guiding individuals, particularly seniors and those with disabilities, through the complexities of the health care system. My primary emphasis is on Medicare plans. My duties include helping individuals understand Medicare plans and supplemental insurance options like Medigap and Medicare Advantage. I make sure clients are aware of the benefits, costs, and potential coverage gaps in each plan. To recommend the best-suited coverage options for each client, I assess clients’ financial situations and health needs, which includes reviewing prescription drug requirements and doctor preferences. Additionally, I assist clients with the enrollment process, ensuring that they meet deadlines and avoid penalties. By helping my clients choose the right plan for their needs, I reduce the stress and financial burden of healthcare costs. Additionally, in a broader sense, my work helps improve the transparency and understanding of the health insurance market, promoting better health outcomes for individuals.
How did you get started in your industry?
In 2018, I spent six months training professionally as a soccer player in Mostar with F.K. Velež. Upon my return to the US that year, I needed health insurance for myself and enjoyed learning about the process. I saw the opportunity to join the industry, believing I could really make a great impact on others. Here I am, six years later, working as a licensed insurance agent.
What steps have you taken over the years to advance in your industry?
About four years ago, I made the decision to focus my work efforts on the Bosnian community. Today, about 90% of my clients are Bosnian. Through efforts I have made, I am honored to have become one of the top 50 Medicare agents in the nation. Building the Bosnian community’s trust in me has made this possible. I participate in educational events at both of the Bosnian community centers and mosques in my area. I am also lucky enough to be part of our Metro-Detroit Bosnian Association. This past year, I opened my own storefront office, which has reduced clients’ need to travel, making my services more accessible to them.
How has working in insurance strengthened your connection to the Bosnian community?
I have helped develop and normalize culturally sensitive, language-specific guidance on insurance health plans in my workplace and beyond. I’ve attended community events, provided personalized support for unique healthcare needs, and assisted clients in navigating complex insurance options. This involvement has led to numerous word-of-mouth referrals and allowed me to become a trusted resource, strengthening my role in the community as someone providing both professional services and personal engagement.
What aspects of your industry have you made more accessible to the Bosnian community?
I’ve made this industry more accessible to Bosnians through language support. Many people in our community face language barriers, so explaining plans, benefits, and requirements in their native language has been a key factor in improving accessibility. Furthermore, when my clients have questions they want to direct to insurance companies, I make calls on their behalf so that they don’t become frustrated. I also break down the details of the insurance world into accessible explanations tailored to clients’ levels of understanding. Additionally, I prioritize providing one-on-one support to help clients through initial sign-ups and annual renewals. I know how difficult the insurance process can be!
What has been a memorable project for you, and what did it teach you?
On one occasion, I hosted a Medicare education seminar specifically for the Bosnian community. Many members of our community had expressed confusion about Medicare, enrollment deadlines, and what coverage was best suited for them. Alongside Dr. Sijana Džinić, I addressed these concerns, speaking with the community about prevention and intervention against malignant diseases. This project taught me how important it is to be active and engaged within the community so that I can serve as a valuable resource.
What advice do you have for Bosnian-American professionals who want to join your industry and succeed like you?
The insurance industry can be very competitive and challenging at times, especially when you’re starting out. Stay persistent, be patient, and focus on long-term relationships. As long as you stay true to yourself, build trust with a niche clientele, and deliver excellent service, success will follow.
