Rama Duwaji, New York City’s incoming first lady and an illustrator, expressed her frustration at being predominantly recognized as “Zohran Mamdani’s wife” rather than for her artistic achievements. In a recent profile published by New York Magazine, Duwaji vowed to continue her career as an artist even as she takes on her new official role after her husband’s inauguration on January 1.
“I’m definitely not stopping that,” Duwaji stated. She hopes to leverage her new platform to highlight and support undiscovered artists, emphasizing the struggles many face in the city. “There are so many talented, undiscovered artists making work with no instant validation, using their last paycheck on material,” she noted.
Duwaji, who had remained largely silent during her husband’s mayoral campaign, acknowledged the challenges of stepping into the public eye, admitting that she felt pressure to be seen as more than just Mamdani’s spouse. “I realized that it was not just his thing but our thing,” she said, reflecting on the attention she has received alongside his rising political profile. She expressed disappointment that her first articles featured her identity linked to her husband rather than her artistic work and accomplishments.
Despite the scrutiny, Duwaji has attracted a dedicated following on social media, with her style noted by Vogue as the “new cool girl look.” She revealed that women have started asking for “the Rama” hairstyle at salons, indicating her influence in contemporary fashion.
In the interview, Duwaji also touched on her passion for politics, particularly concerning issues in Palestine, Syria, and Sudan. “Everything is political,” she stated, explaining that her political views are a significant part of her conversations with family and friends.
As the couple prepares to move from their rent-stabilized apartment in Astoria to Gracie Mansion, Duwaji shared her transition feelings, expressing excitement about exploring new areas of the city while still feeling connected to her roots.
Duwaji humorously described how her experience during the campaign has changed her self-view, comparing herself to a fruit—once a sweet raspberry, she now sees herself as a lychee, which has a “slightly hardened shell but still open and soft on the inside.”
This new chapter in Duwaji’s life holds promise for her artistic future and a dedication to amplifying voices within the creative community, making her upcoming role as first lady an opportunity for both personal and artistic growth.