Who Is Rama Duwaji, Wife of Newly Elected NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani

As New York City welcomes its new mayor, attention has turned to an unexpected figure — his artistic and private wife, Rama Duwaji, whose quiet presence has captured public fascination.

At just 34, democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani defied expectations to become New York’s new mayor, a victory that reshaped the city’s political landscape. But as his campaign celebrations faded, interest grew in Duwaji, a Brooklyn-based artist suddenly thrust into the public eye.

Duwaji, once a freelance illustrator, met Mamdani on the dating app Hinge in 2021. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage at the City Clerk’s office in early 2025. Despite public curiosity, she has largely avoided the spotlight, declining interviews after finding the sudden attention overwhelming.

Born in the U.S. to Syrian parents, Duwaji has often reflected on her mixed identity. Her artwork explores themes of sisterhood, belonging, and cultural memory. She has collaborated with major outlets like The New Yorker, BBC, and Tate Modern, and earned her MFA from the School of Visual Arts in 2024 with a thesis celebrating connection through food and family.

Mamdani, meanwhile, has built a historic career in politics. Born in Uganda and raised in New York, he became the first South Asian, Ugandan, and Muslim elected to the New York State Assembly before his groundbreaking mayoral win.

As the couple celebrated victory, social media erupted with admiration for Duwaji’s grace and beauty. Many compared her to Princess Diana, dubbing her “the most stunning First Lady in NYC history.”

Whether she embraces public life or stays behind the scenes, Rama Duwaji has already redefined the role of First Lady — blending artistry, empathy, and quiet strength into New York’s new political chapter.