Karolina Agata Sankiewicz, widely known as the “Barbie Dubai Surfer,” was honored with a special award by the Filipino Social Club during the 126th Philippine Independence Day celebrations held at the Dubai World Trade Centre on June 14. The award was presented in the presence of Philippine Ambassador Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver and Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac of the Philippine Embassy in the UAE.
The recognition came after Sankiewicz’s viral tribute that captured global attention—wakesurfing in a traditional Filipiniana gown and heels while holding the Philippine flag, all set against the backdrop of Dubai’s iconic skyline. The video, which debuted days before June 12, was her creative and heartfelt salute to the Filipino people, particularly her team members whom she described as “the kindest and most hardworking.”
Her tribute, which has racked up over 75 million views across various platforms, sparked waves of admiration—and skepticism. Some netizens accused her of using artificial intelligence to create the surreal-looking stunt. But Sankiewicz recently broke her silence and released behind-the-scenes footage to prove it was all real. The clips revealed the physical effort, planning, and coordination it took to pull off the symbolic act, with her team riding alongside her on support boats.
In a public post, Karolina expressed her gratitude:
“Thank you so much, Philippines, for this incredible award. I’m truly blessed and humbled to be recognized.”
She added that the privilege of meeting Ambassador Ver and Secretary Cacdac was an honor she would never forget. Wearing a modern Filipiniana adorned with the Philippine flag and the sash presented during the ceremony, Karolina proudly held her plaque, which cited her for “recognition of the big heart shown to the Filipino community through her viral tribute.”
