Living at Aalto in the Zibi community has transformed 26-year-old Debrah Makinde’s perspective on the Ottawa-Gatineau region. Originally from Toronto, Debrah has spent nearly a decade in Ottawa, including time as a student at Carleton University. After a period of feeling isolated while living in Gatineau’s Aylmer district, her move to Aalto a year and a half ago sparked a newfound love for the city. 

Morning with a view 

Debrah’s mornings begin with a breathtaking waterfront sunrise view while she enjoys her breakfast. On weekends, she prioritizes her health, heading to the downstairs gym or taking a refreshing walk along the water right outside her door.  

Work and content creation 

As a public servant by day, and digital content creator by night, Debrah uses the entire Zibi community as her backdrop. While she currently works East of downtown, she frequently uses Aalto’s coworking spaces for her work at home days and to edit her videos. Living at Zibi also makes her commute to work seamless; she simply walks to the Pimişi LRT station to catch the train directly to work! 

Community and connection 

For Debrah, Aalto is more than just an apartment; it’s a social hub. She frequently hosts friends in the shared games room, recently celebrating a holiday there with food and games. Locally, she is a regular at Marché Saveurs (located nearby in Vieux-Hull) and the newly opened Aisle 24 at Zibi.. And on weekends, she explores nearby local gems in the Byward Market and in Gatineau. 

Why Aalto? 

Debrah has become such an advocate for the lifestyle that she has successfully referred two close friends who now also live in the Aalto building. 

“It’s peaceful, it’s inviting, it’s cozy, and it’s convenient. Your home should feel like a sanctuary, and even beyond the apartment, Zibi feels like a community in the best way possible.” 

Follow Debrah’s journey and see her life at Zibi videos on Instagram at @debrahmore. 

Learn more about living at Zibi and our residential rental offerings.