Rama Duwaji is a gifted artist representing a deeply rooted culture. As the soon-to-be wife of Zohran Mamdani—NYC’s future first Muslim and first South Asian citywide elected official, to be inaugurated as mayor on January 1, 2026—she’s positioned to play an even larger role in the Big Apple. Passionate about her craft, Duwaji journeys from Texas/New York City to live and share her art. In the process, she collects an array of experiences that develop her original artistic vision.
Born in Texas to a Syrian family, Duwaji relocated to Dubai when she was nine. This transition opened her eyes to a variety of cultures that have greatly impacted her artistry. Her experience of growing up abroad has given her a rarer perspective, which she pours into her craft. Over the past few years, Duwaji has been deeply engaged with artist residencies in Lebanon and France. Collectively, these experiences have sharpened her skills and broadened her creative horizons.
In 2021, Duwaji took an exhilarating leap into the unknown by moving to New York City. This landmark choice allowed her to immerse herself in the artistic communities of one of the globe’s most dynamic metropolises. She received her Master of Fine Arts at the School of Visual Arts in New York with a graduation year of 2024. Her education only further honed her skills. Its impact has uniquely positioned her as a federal, national, and international leader in the art community.
Artistic Passion and Recognition
Her art is intensely personal, derived from Duwaji’s defined passions and the art she has cultivated through life experiences. Her phenomenal talent has already garnered her multiple prestigious awards. More than that, people want to honor her as an artist in a way that recognizes her on her own terms. Her unique background and experiences enrich her artistic vision, empowering her to create complex, human-centered work that resonates with and transforms audiences of all kinds.
Duwaji is looking forward to stepping into her new role as New York City’s First Lady. She hopes to utilize her platform to amplify the arts and lift up other artists. Her work is fueled by her passion for creativity and cultivating a climate where art flourishes. She has an unwavering faith in the ability of art to promote collective action, spark imagination, and heal divided communities.
Personal Life and Relationship with Zohran Mamdani
Rama Duwaji’s real life romance parallels his contemporary love story. On the other end of that same fateful dating app Hinge, she found Zohran Mamdani, whose family story and values resonated deeply with her own. Their relationship thrived, culminating in their marriage three months later, shortly before a May 2025 Instagram post declaring their marriage. This layer of contemporary romance adds quite a bit to both of their characters’ lives as they gear up for their new public roles.
Mamdani’s historic election proves that it’s time for New York City to turn the page. As the first mayor in history born on the African continent, many are hoping his leadership will introduce new ways of approaching and thinking about city governance. Together, the couple’s partnership represents a new direction in city politics that embraces diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Looking Ahead
With inauguration day fast approaching, Duwaji’s influence as the new First Lady will certainly reach much farther than conventional boundaries. Speaking with her about her agenda to promote the arts, while emphasizing policies that foster civic discourse and strengthen cultural appreciation, is inspiring. Rama Duwaji enters this new chapter with purpose. As she continues to impress and surprise us with her artistry, she’ll make waves in her new role as a public figure.
