Meet Rama Duwaji, Syria-Born Artist Wife Of NYC Mayoral Frontrunner Zohran Mamdani—They Met On Hinge

Rama Duwaji, 27, is a Syrian-born illustrator and visual artist based in Brooklyn, New York, and is now also drawing public attention as the wife of Zohran Mamdani, the 33-year-old Democratic Socialist who recently secured victory in New York City's Democratic mayoral primary.

But their journey is far from the typical political love story-they first met on the dating app Hinge.

In a frank conversation with comedian Kaneez Surka, Mamdani shared, "I found my wife on Hinge. So, dating apps still work. Just to let people know."

Their connection was sparked by a mutual appreciation for music and art, culminating in a proposal in Dubai-where Rama's family is based-in December 2024. The pair married in early 2025 in a modest civil ceremony at the New York City Clerk's office.

Who is Zohran Mamdani's Wife?

Born in Damascus, Syria, Rama Duwaji is an acclaimed illustrator whose vibrant work delves into themes of identity, migration, heritage, and community.

She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication Design from Virginia Commonwealth University, followed by a Master's in Illustration from New York's School of Visual Arts.

Her portfolio boasts an impressive list of clients, including The New Yorker, The Washington Post, VICE, BBC, Apple, Spotify, Tate Modern, and Cartier.

Beyond her illustration work, Duwaji is also involved in ceramics and pottery, further enriching her multi-disciplinary practice.

According to her website, her work "examines the nuances of sisterhood and communal experiences," often weaving together the personal and political in subtle yet impactful ways.

Despite being married to a high-profile political figure, Duwaji deliberately kept a low profile throughout Mamdani's campaign. Her absence became a point of contention, with some political opponents accusing Mamdani of "hiding his wife."

In May 2025, Mamdani addressed the criticism in an emotional 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 verge of making history-potentially becoming New York City's first Indian-American, first Muslim, and first Democratic Socialist mayor-Duwaji emerges as a new kind of First Lady: one defined not by political tradition, but by creativity, activism, and cultural richness.