Jul 2, 2025 - News

Rama Duwaji, Zohran Mamdani's wife, has Richmond roots

Sabrina Moreno

zohran mamdani on stage with his wife and parents — Zohran Mamdani (middle) with his wife Rama Duwaji on his right in New York last week. Photo: Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images

There's a chance the next first lady of New York City is a VCUarts grad.

Why it matters: Rama Duwaji's husband, Zohran Mamdani, has sent Democratic leaders spiraling after winning the party's nomination for NYC mayor last week — which has launched the Syrian illustrator into the spotlight.

Catch up quick: Duwaji, a 27-year-old artist who now lives in Brooklyn, graduated cum laude from VCU as a communication arts major in 2019.

Her first solo show was at VCU's Anderson Gallery and her first graphic novel, focused on body dysmorphia, was born from a VCU art class about mental health.

What we're watching: If she ever responds to us and shares her favorite Richmond spots. We secretly hope they include Ipanema (RIP) or The Village Cafe.

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Rama Duwaji, Zohran Mamdani's wife, has Richmond roots

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