Dubai, UAE – Karolina Agata Sankiewicz, the Polish-born wake-surfer famously dubbed “Dubai’s Barbie Surfer,” has been officially recognized by the Filipino Social Club in Dubai for her recent tribute to the Filipino community during Philippine Independence Day celebrations.

Karolina captivated audiences earlier this month with a bold and heartfelt performance: surfing in traditional Filipiniana attire while gracefully holding the Philippine flag. The viral video, which quickly amassed millions of views, was widely praised by Filipinos in the UAE for its creativity and respect toward Filipino culture.

In response to the overwhelming positive reception, the Filipino Social Club (FilSoc) extended a formal invitation to Karolina to attend a special ceremony during the Philippine Independence Day event held at the Dubai World Trade Centre. There, she was honored with a commemorative award in recognition of her “cultural solidarity and creative tribute to the Filipino community in the UAE.”

A Surfing Salute with Meaning

Karolina, known for her eye-catching stunts and viral wake-surfing videos, dedicated the performance to her Filipino friends and team members who have supported her throughout her journey in Dubai.

“It was a sincere gesture of admiration and gratitude,” she said during the event. “The Filipino community in Dubai has always shown me kindness and warmth. This was my way of saying thank you.”

Her surf tribute, blending elegance, athleticism, and cultural pride, resonated deeply with Filipinos across the Emirates, becoming a symbol of appreciation and unity.

Celebrating Unity in Diversity

The Filipino Social Club, a licensed nonprofit organization, plays a leading role in promoting Filipino culture and values in the UAE. This year’s Philippine Independence Day celebration embraced the theme of “Unity in Diversity,” drawing thousands of attendees from various nationalities.

Karolina’s recognition stood out as a powerful example of cross-cultural friendship. Her participation not only entertained but also reminded everyone of the shared bonds between communities in Dubai’s multicultural environment.

Event Highlights:

DateOccasionKey Highlights
June 14Philippine Independence Day in DubaiCultural performances, traditional showcases, and Karolina’s tribute award

Karolina Agata Sankiewicz continues to inspire with her creative energy, bringing people together through sport, artistry, and respect for culture. Her tribute to the Filipino community will be remembered as a meaningful gesture of appreciation and unity.