Rama Duwaji is a groundbreaking Syrian-American artist, animator, and advocate whose life and work embody the fusion of creative achievement, civic engagement, and cross-cultural identity.
As she becomes the youngest-ever First Lady of New York City, Duwaji’s journey reflects major themes of political significance, transnational experience, activism, and symbolic artistry. Her story and the issues she champions are further explored in her powerful podcast interviews.
Political & Cultural Significance
Youthful Leadership
Rama Duwaji will assume the role of New York City’s First Lady at the age of 28, marking her as the city’s first Gen Z woman in this historical position.
Her rise represents a new era in civic visibility for young, globally aware leaders.
Diplomatic Communication
Drawing from her multicultural roots—born in Houston to Syrian parents, raised in Dubai, and now a Brooklyn resident—Duwaji bridges Eastern and Western worlds in her communication style.
Her strong diplomatic and representational skills have played a pivotal role in shaping political campaigns and visual identities behind the scenes, notably supporting her husband Zohran Mamdani’s historic mayoral campaign.
Syrian-American Narrative
Duwaji’s story exemplifies the complexities of the Syrian-American experience.
The intersection of her Arab heritage, religious background, and American upbringing allows her to speak to diverse audiences and frame nuanced narratives about migration, identity, and belonging.
Personal Journey & Transnational Identity
Transnational Marriage Timeline
- Engaged in October 2024.
- Wedding: Three-part event, including ceremonies in Dubai and New York City, blending Muslim and civil traditions.
- Relocated post-marriage to Queens, New York.
Cross-Cultural Milestones
- Born in Houston in 1997, moved to Dubai at age 9.
- Higher education across Doha, Richmond (Virginia), and New York highlights her international academic journey.
- Maintains strong ties to Syrian and Emirati roots.
Current Residence
Now residing in Queens, she is celebrated as a symbol of global citizenship and Muslim women’s leadership in the U.S.
Artistic Identity & Professional Life
Background & Upbringing
Growing up between the U.S., Dubai, and Syria, Duwaji was encouraged by her parents in her artistic pursuit while navigating expectations for career stability.
Her early exposure to different cultural contexts shaped both her style and subject matter.
Artistic Mediums
- Digital illustration (featured in The New Yorker, Washington Post, BBC).
- Animation focusing on themes of sisterhood and social issues.
- Handbuilt ceramics blending tradition with modern expressions.
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Global Collaborations
- High-profile commissions and features: Apple, Spotify, Tate Modern, VICE.
- Workshops for creative institutions like It’s Nice That.
- Graduate thesis at SVA New York on art as a communal act and bridge.
Activism & Thematic Work
Duwaji’s art centers on themes like women’s rights, Middle Eastern conflict, and the power of communal memory.
Recent works address pressing issues such as the Gaza genocide and Sudanese civil conflict.
Digital Activism
Since 2021, she has leveraged digital platforms to amplify marginalized voices, combining online advocacy with community engagement. Her art serves as both resistance and healing.
Setting Precedent
By playing multiple roles as artist, activist, and political partner, she has set a precedent for integrated civic leadership and cultural influence.
Victory Celebration Statement (Symbolic Position)
Symbolic Victory
- Recognized as a cultural and political icon for Arab and Muslim women in America.
- Tattoos and Palestinian embroidery that celebrate heritage and resistance.
- Use of calligraphy and ceremonial acts at public events to blend heritage and forward-thinking identity.
Acts of Cultural Assertion
Her work has been featured in exhibitions highlighting radical fashion as political and cultural statement pieces.
Insights from Podcast Appearances
In multiple podcasts, such as The Amad Show and Tavan Studio in Conversation, Duwaji shares her journey balancing art and activism.
The episode of Tavan Studio in Conversation features Syrian illustrator Rama Duwaji discussing how she navigated her art career and passion following college. The 53-minute discussion explores her geographical movements, including a residency in Beirut and a return to Damascus after the civil war, and delves into the important topics she addresses in her artwork, such as beauty standards, mental health, and self-care, along with the nature of social media as a double-edged sword.
Conclusion
As New York City’s First Lady, her legacy will inspire future leaders and creatives alike.
To explore her work further, visit her official website, Instagram and listen to her podcast episodes linked above.
