Who Is Rama Duwaji? The Creative Force Beside Zohran Mamdani
Rama Duwaji, a 27-year-old Syrian American animator and illustrator, quietly commands attention with her powerful artwork and compelling presence. Based in Brooklyn, New York, she is not only the wife of newly elected NYC mayoral hopeful Zohran Mamdani but also an accomplished multimedia artist known for illuminating pressing social and political issues through her work.
A Brief Glimpse Into Rama’s Background
Born in Texas with roots tracing back to Damascus, Syria, Rama holds a Master of Fine Arts in Illustration from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. She leverages her talent to explore themes of Arab identity, sisterhood, communal struggle, and political resistance. These deeply personal elements resonate strongly within her portfolio, which has gained recognition from major platforms including The New Yorker, The Washington Post, BBC, and even London’s Tate Modern.
Art With A Message: Highlighting Palestinian Struggles
Rama Duwaji’s work frequently carries a pro-Palestinian narrative, placing a spotlight on Israeli violence and the complicity she perceives on the part of U.S. policies. Her animations and illustrated portraits depict the harrowing realities of ethnic cleansing and war crimes, making an unflinching statement that art must serve as a mirror to society.
One standout piece criticized New York charities accused of funding actions linked to Israeli military operations—one that Zohran Mamdani famously shared to amplify its message. Reflecting her artistic philosophy, she echoes Nina Simone’s words, “An artist’s duty is to reflect the times.”
Beyond Illustration: A Multidimensional Artist
In addition to her animations and drawings, Rama crafts delicate ceramics, often hand-illustrated blue-and-white plates that blend cultural motifs with contemporary narratives. With an Instagram following nearing 92,000 admirers, she uses social media as a platform to promote her art alongside political commentary and glimpses into her personal milestones.
The Personal Side: Rama and Zohran’s Story
The couple first crossed paths through the dating app Hinge several years ago. Their relationship blossomed away from the public eye, culminating in a private engagement and Nikkah ceremony held in Dubai in December 2024, followed by a civil wedding at New York City’s Clerk office earlier this year.
Despite her usual preference for privacy, Rama made a memorable appearance during Zohran Mamdani’s victory speech after clinching the Democratic primary against former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a stunning political upset. Her presence on stage was met with admiration and warmth as Zohran openly thanked her, highlighting their partnership in his historic campaign.
Why Rama’s Story Matters
- Represents a fresh, artistic perspective intertwined with political activism in NYC’s evolving landscape.
- Illustrates the multifaceted identities influencing contemporary American leadership and culture.
- Serves as a reminder that behind every public figure is a network of support and inspiration.
Together, Zohran Mamdani and Rama Duwaji symbolize a youthful, dynamic force committed to social change—one that blends creativity, activism, and personal conviction as they prepare for life at New York City’s helm.
