Rama Duwaji: NYC’s Next First Lady and Acclaimed Artist
New York City’s political landscape is abuzz with the victory of mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, but equally newsworthy is the woman who will stand beside him: Rama Duwaji. At just 28, Duwaji is set to become the youngest first lady in the city’s history, stepping into the spotlight after her husband’s triumphant mayoral win. Mamdani publicly celebrated his wife, affectionately calling her “hayati,” an Arabic term meaning “my life,” underscoring her importance in his journey.
Duwaji is a New York-based artist with Syrian heritage, known for her evocative work exploring Middle Eastern themes. Her art has graced prestigious platforms, including BBC News, The New York Times, and London’s Tate Modern museum, showcasing her talent independently of her husband’s burgeoning political career. The couple’s modern romance began on the dating app Hinge, a detail Mamdani shared, humorously noting that “there is still hope in those dating apps.”
During the election campaign, Duwaji maintained a low profile, which led to some speculation. However, Mamdani clarified that this was a deliberate choice to shield his loved ones from the often-vicious nature of politics. Despite her preference for privacy, Duwaji was a significant force behind the scenes, contributing to Mamdani’s campaign by helping to finalize its distinct brand identity, including the bold iconography and font seen on his campaign materials. Friends describe her as a “modern-day Princess Diana,” highlighting her growing impact and the anticipation surrounding her role in the upcoming administration. Duwaji’s artistic expressions also reflect her strong opinions on global issues, including criticisms of “American imperialism” and support for Palestinian causes, echoing some of her husband’s political stances. Her commitment to using art as a mirror to societal issues aligns with her belief that artists have a responsibility to speak out against injustice.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2lg3z3z4zo