by Titash Choudhury
Selena Osman is one of Killarney’s newer residents. After buying their first home together, she and her husband moved here in 2023. Like many young couples, they were drawn to Killarney for its inner-city charm, convenience, and sense of community. She is part of the new Killarney, a neighbourhood that is changing with new homes and attracting young professionals and families looking to build their future. But for Selena, Killarney wasn’t unfamiliar. She went to Vincent Massey School which was nearby and had always felt a connection to the area. With her work just around the corner it felt like the perfect place to start this new chapter.
She and her husband, Ayor, are both ambitious and career driven. She is in her dermatology residency while he works as an entrepreneur in a tech startup. She knew she wanted to be a doctor since the 11th grade. She studied biochemistry in university for both her undergrad and master’s before finding her way to dermatology, a field that felt like the right fit. She jokes that Alberta, being one of the sunniest and driest places in the country, also makes it a great place to practice dermatology.
Settling into homeownership while balancing busy careers has come with a few surprises. She laughs as she talks about her garage door that has a mind of its own and stops working some days or the unexpected renovations that seemed to pop up out of nowhere. Despite all the little surprises that come with owning a home they know Killarney is exactly where they are meant to be.
Selena is the oldest of three with a sister and two brothers and from a young age she was encouraged to work hard and dream big. Being the eldest always came with a sense of responsibility but it also taught her the value of determination and setting an example. Her mother, originally from Lebanon, has played a significant role in shaping her outlook on life. She always taught her to handle challenges with grace and respect, a lesson Selena carries with her every day. Her father’s words also resonate deeply: “Every person you meet gives you a lesson in your life.” These values have stayed with her over the years, driving her to push through challenges and remain focused on her goals.
Selena may be new to Killarney, but it did not take long for her to feel at home. She loves taking summer walks, enjoying the tree lined streets, and seeing neighbours out making the most of the warm weather. She laughs about how she always keeps an eye out for the local cats or the ones sitting in windows watching the world go by. She and her husband have also been trying out the local cafés and food spots, and Sinatra’s Pizza has become a favourite. It is the small things that make the neighbourhood feel like home.
Outside of work Selena and her husband make it a priority to spend time together even with their busy schedules. One of their favourite weekend rituals is paint night – a chance to slow down, be creative, and just enjoy each other’s company.
When asked when Killarney started to feel like home she paused and said that there was no big moment just a collection of small ones. Walking the streets meeting neighbours and settling into the rhythm of life here, becoming a first-time homeowner, these are some of the things she will always cherish. If she ever moves, she knows she would miss everything about inner-city life, the easy access to the C-Train, the nearby amenities, and the quiet pockets of nature in the neighbourhood.
On her graduation day with her degree in Medicine.
Selena and Ayor on the day of their home possession.
Share your story, your neighbour’s story, or inspiring community members with Humans of Killarney. Contact Titash, Director of Membership, at [email protected]
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