From Uganda to New York: Zohran Mamdani's Journey to the Mayor's Race

Zohran Mamdani, a name that has been making waves in New York politics, has a story that's as diverse as the city he hopes to lead. Born in Uganda in 1991, Mamdani's family moved to New York when he was just seven years old. This move set the stage for a life that would be a blend of cultures, ideas, and experiences. Mamdani's parents are notable figures in their own right. His father is a professor at Columbia University, and his mother is a renowned filmmaker. This background might have influenced Mamdani's early interest in social justice and community organizing. He co-founded his high school's first cricket team, showing an early knack for bringing people together. After college, Mamdani dove headfirst into community organizing. He joined Change Corps, a training program, but left after six months, believing he was about to be fired for organizing a union within the program. This early experience might have shaped his views on workers' rights and unionization. Mamdani's political journey has been marked by his involvement in various campaigns. He volunteered for Ali Najmi's city council campaign in 2015 and worked on Khader el-Yateem's campaign in 2017. He also managed Ross Barkan's state Senate campaign in 2018. These experiences likely honed his political skills and deepened his understanding of the political landscape. In 2018, Mamdani became a U. S. citizen through naturalization. This was a significant milestone in his journey, allowing him to fully participate in the political process. He also started working for Chhaya, a housing advocacy group, as a foreclosure prevention counselor. This role would have given him a firsthand look at the housing challenges faced by many New Yorkers. Mamdani's political career took a significant step forward in 2020 when he was elected to the New York state Assembly to represent District 36. He has since been reelected twice, demonstrating his ability to connect with voters and represent their interests. In 2021, Mamdani joined New York cab drivers on a 15-day hunger strike, seeking relief from excessive debt owed on their medallions. This action showcased his commitment to social justice and his willingness to stand up for the rights of workers. On October 23, 2024, Mamdani announced his candidacy for mayor of New York City. This was a bold move, given the competitive nature of New York politics. On June 24, 2025, he won the Democratic mayoral primary, bringing him one step closer to his goal of leading the city. Mamdani's journey is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and commitment to social justice. His diverse background and experiences have shaped his views and policies, making him a unique candidate in the mayoral race.