As New York City gears up for the swearing-in of its new mayor, all eyes are turning to the city’s incoming First Lady, Rama Duwaji.
The spotlight is not just on her poised public appearances — her artistic work and political expressions online have sparked conversations, raising questions about the views she may bring to the official role starting January 1, 2026.
Art and Activism Intersect
Duwaji, a Houston-born artist who identifies as Syrian, has been vocal about international issues through her illustrations.
During the ongoing conflict in Gaza, her work has highlighted the plight of Palestinians and criticized the U.S. role in the region.
One animation she created portrayed stacks of U.S. bills marked “Israeli war crimes,” which her husband, mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, shared in 2024, calling for an end to what he described as funding for violence.
In earlier posts, she depicted Palestinian families under threat from military action, emphasizing the human cost of geopolitical conflict.
Even recently, she drew attention with a post of four broken-heart emojis over a picture of Palestinian influencer Saleh Al-Jafarawi, who was tragically killed last month amid ongoing violence.
These posts have become part of public discussion as she steps into a formal civic role.
A Poised Entrance to the Public Eye
Duwaji’s style and presence have also captured attention.
At a recent Brooklyn appearance alongside her husband, she wore a black lace ensemble and a chic blunt fringe reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn.
Her wave to supporters, paired with immaculate dark nails, showcased the polished image she brings to public life.
With over one million Instagram followers, her aloof, confident persona has become a signature, blending glamour with a calm, measured public profile.
A Love Story Born Online
Rama Duwaji and Zohran Mamdani met on Hinge in 2021, when she was 24 and he 29, already climbing the political ladder as a state assemblyman.
Their relationship moved quickly — they got engaged in October 2024 and married in February 2025 at Manhattan’s historic City Hall.
The celebrations included a Nikkah ceremony in Dubai last December, reflecting Duwaji’s international upbringing.
The couple’s romance is a reminder of how modern relationships and public life can intertwine, with social media playing a central role in their story.
From Arts Student to New York First Lady
Duwaji studied at Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts, with programs in both Doha and Richmond.
After graduating, she returned to Dubai before relocating to New York in 2021 — just months before meeting Mamdani.
Her background as a trained illustrator and international resident has informed both her artistic style and her global outlook, which she continues to express through her work and online presence.
Mamdani’s Meteoric Rise
Zohran Mamdani, 34, has experienced a whirlwind year politically.
After launching his mayoral campaign in October 2024 with minimal polling support, he faced the formidable presence of former Governor Andrew Cuomo.
Despite Cuomo leading in early polls, Mamdani steadily gained traction, particularly among young voters drawn to his accessible social media presence and bold affordability promises.
His proposals — including freezing rent for stabilized tenants, making city buses fare-free, and opening city-run grocery stores — won him fervent support, even amid skepticism from more moderate political circles.
Shaking Up the Democratic Primary
The June 24 Democratic primary was expected to favor Cuomo, yet Mamdani emerged victorious on the first round, capturing 43 percent of the vote to Cuomo’s 36 percent.
His win marked a turning point in the city’s political landscape, demonstrating the power of grassroots support and social media engagement in modern elections.
He then went on to secure a win in the general election, capping off a rapid ascent to New York City’s top office.
What Role Will Duwaji Play?
As the city prepares for the new administration, questions remain about how Duwaji’s artistic voice and public political positions might influence her role as First Lady.
Her posts on Gaza and American foreign policy have drawn attention, but her supporters emphasize her commitment to arts, culture, and civic engagement.
The city will soon witness how the young couple balances the personal, political, and public spheres in one of the world’s most visible municipal offices.
Looking Ahead
With inauguration day approaching, Rama Duwaji’s presence is poised to add a distinct, international, and artistic dimension to New York City’s civic life.
As the couple navigates their first year in office, their story highlights the intertwining of social media, modern romance, and political ambition in shaping the city’s future.