Meet Rama Duwaji: The Artist Behind NYC’s New Mayor
As New York City celebrates its newest mayor, Zohran Mamdani, another figure quietly captures the public’s imagination: his artist wife, Rama Duwaji. Her creativity and private nature now add a new dimension to the city’s biggest story.
Zohran Mamdani’s Historic Win
At 34, democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani defied expectations to become New York City’s next mayor. His victory rewrote the political script and surprised even seasoned observers.
As the city celebrated his win, another story quietly unfolded: Rama Duwaji, a Brooklyn-based artist, stepped—albeit subtly—into the spotlight.
A Modern Fairytale Romance
Duwaji met Mamdani in 2021 via the dating app Hinge. Their whirlwind romance led to a City Clerk’s office wedding in early 2025. Once a freelance illustrator navigating post-college life, Duwaji now finds her life intertwined with politics, fame, and public attention.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Mamdani shared on May 12, 2025:
“Three months ago, I married the love of my life, Rama. Now, right-wing trolls try to make this race about her. Rama isn’t just my wife—she’s an incredible artist who deserves recognition on her own terms.”
Despite sudden public fascination, Duwaji has avoided the media spotlight. The New York Times reports she declined all press after the primaries, overwhelmed by the attention. To friends, she remains a beloved icon. Photographer Hasnain Bhatti called her “our modern-day Princess Diana.”
Zohran Mamdani celebrates alongside his wife Rama Duwaji, his parents Mahmood and Mira Nair during an election night event at the Brooklyn Paramount Theater in New York on November 4, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
Syrian Roots and Artistic Vision
Born in the U.S., Duwaji has openly discussed her Syrian-American identity. She recalls sometimes denying her heritage before the Syrian war. Professionally, she has established herself as a Syrian illustrator and animator exploring sisterhood and community.
Working from her Brooklyn studio, she has collaborated with The New Yorker, The Washington Post, BBC, Apple, Spotify, VICE, and Tate Modern. In 2021, she taught illustration workshops with London-based digital publisher It’s Nice That and continues to explore ceramics alongside digital art.
Her MFA thesis, Sahtain!—Arabic for “bon appétit”—transformed cooking into a meditation on memory, belonging, and joy. Her graduate chair, Riccardo Vecchio, praised her focus and dedication to underrepresented perspectives in art.
Mamdani: Politics, Roots, and Vision
Standing beside Duwaji is Mamdani, equally remarkable. Born in Kampala, Uganda, he moved to New York at seven and became a U.S. citizen in 2018. A Bronx High School of Science and Bowdoin College graduate, he previously worked as a foreclosure prevention counselor in Queens, shaping his views on inequality.
As a politician, Mamdani pushes for a radical vision: dignity should not be determined by the market. His historic rise marks him as the first South Asian man, first Ugandan, and only the third Muslim elected to New York State’s Assembly.
Social Media Sensation
Following the election, the public’s attention turned to Duwaji. Social media erupted with praise. On X, one fan wrote, “Rama is easily the most stunning First Lady in NYC’s history.” Reddit and TikTok users echoed similar sentiments, likening her poise to Princess Diana and celebrating her artistic aura.
Whether she embraces the limelight or remains behind the scenes, Duwaji is already reshaping the image of a First Lady—one rooted in art, empathy, and quiet strength.
