Start with a dwarf or compact variety, which stays manageable in a pot and is easier to protect from wind. Varieties such as Red Lady, Taiwan and Pusa Nanha are popular for small spaces, and your local nursery can suggest what suits your climate. Seeds from a ripe, healthy papaya will also germinate, but the fruit may not match the parent, so buy good-quality seeds or seedlings if you want predictable results. If you use fresh seeds, scoop them out, rub off the slimy coating and dry them in the shade for a day or two before sowing.
