Rama Duwaji, 27, is a Syrian illustrator and visual artist based in Brooklyn, New York, and now, she’s also gaining public attention as the wife of Zohran Mamdani, the 33-year-old Democratic Socialist who recently won New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary. But their story is far from typical political fare, they met on the dating app Hinge.
In a candid interview with comedian Kaneez Surka, Mamdani shared, “I found my wife on Hinge. So, dating apps still work. Just to let people know.” They bonded over a shared love for music and art, eventually leading to a proposal in Dubai, where Rama’s family resides in December 2024. They married in early 2025 in a simple civil ceremony at the New York City Clerk’s office.
Who is Zohran Mamdani’s wife?
Born in Damascus, Syria, Duwaji is an award-winning illustrator whose work vibrantly explores themes of identity, migration, heritage, and community. She earned a BFA in Communication Design from Virginia Commonwealth University, followed by a Master’s in Illustration from New York’s School of Visual Arts.
Her client list reads like a who is who of media and culture, The New Yorker, The Washington Post, VICE, BBC, Apple, Spotify, Tate Modern, and Cartier have all featured her work. Beyond illustration, Duwaji’s artistic expression extends into ceramics and pottery, adding another layer to her multifaceted creative practice. According to her website, her art “examines the nuances of sisterhood and communal experiences,” often blending the personal with the political in subtle yet powerful ways.
Though married to a rising political figure, Duwaji intentionally kept a low profile during Mamdani’s campaign. Her absence led to criticism from some political opponents who accused Mamdani of “hiding his wife.” In May 2025, Mamdani pushed back with a heartfelt Instagram post, “Three months ago, I married the love of my life, Rama, at the City Clerk’s office. Now, right-wing trolls are trying to make this race, which should be about you – about her. Rama isn’t just my wife, she’s an incredible artist who deserves to be known on her own terms.”
As Mamdani stands on the brink of making history, potentially becoming New York City’s first Indian-American, first Muslim, and first Democratic Socialist mayor, Duwaji represents a new kind of First Lady. One not molded by tradition, but shaped by creativity, activism, and cultural depth.