Embracing VANCOUVER

60 Seconds About Real-life Vancouver With Kilkenny Girl Dervilia Coogan

What brought you to Vancouver?

When my partner, Dave Curtin, and I first set foot in Vancouver back in 2014, we had no idea that we were about to embark on an incredible journey of making this vibrant city our home! After graduating with a BA in Humanities in Ireland, I was brimming with excitement and eager to embark on new adventures. As we embraced our new surroundings, we quickly realized that Vancouver had a treasure trove of opportunities waiting to be discovered.

What was your first big break?

Before I knew it, I found myself signed with the renowned John Casablanca’s international model agency – a dream come true! This fantastic opportunity opened doors to collaborations with brilliant fashion designers, trendy boutiques, and thrilling events like Vancouver Fashion Week and even Lamborghini showcases. Among my memorable experiences was presenting a trophy at the Women’s World Cup final. To top it off, I was featured multiple times in Vogue, an accomplishment that continues to fill me with pride. Having just completed the Fall/Winter 2023 season of Vancouver Fashion Week, I am excited to see where my fashion journey takes me next!

What do you love about Vancouver?

Vancouver’s charm extends beyond the realm of fashion. The city is a haven for health and fitness enthusiasts, with a wide array of clubs and groups to join. I eagerly joined a local running club, which not only helped me stay fit but also introduced me to remarkable individuals from various cultures. Together, we prepared for the 10k Sunrun – North America’s largest 10k road race, which boasted 35,000 participants this year! Completing the run gave me a feeling of accomplishment and gratitude for the experience.

Tell us more about Chill Mind

The dynamic city of Vancouver also acquainted me with the rejuvenating practice of cold plunging. Motivated by the health benefits I experienced, I decided to establish my own cold plunge community. Sharing this life-changing practice with our local community has been a remarkable experience. Our sessions are designed to help people reduce stress, improve their mental and physical health, and increase their overall wellbeing. At Chill Mind, we believe that everyone should have access to the healing power of cold plunging & meditation.

What did Vancouver bring into your life?

Vancouver ignited my passion for health and wellness like never before. Nestled amidst stunning natural landscapes, with local trails, the ocean, and scenic mountains, I was truly grateful for the unlimited amount of opportunities for exploration and personal growth in this inspiring city. I am forever thankful for the paths that Vancouver opened up for me, and I know I will always look back at my time here with fondness and appreciation for the experiences that it brought into my life.