Dubai-based content creator and surfer Karolina Agata Sankiewicz has captured hearts of Pinoys with her unique and heartfelt tribute to the Filipino community. Known as the “Barbie Dubai Surfer,” Karolina created waves online with her latest Facebook Reel, which garnered over 11 million views to date. The video, released ahead of Philippine Independence Day, showcases Karolina riding the waves in Dubai wearing a modern Filipiniana dress and heels while proudly waving the Philippine flag.
This daring and creative performance aims to honor her Filipino team members and the vibrant Filipino community in the UAE. Speaking about what inspired the video, Karolina shared, “Mahal kita, Philippines,” expressing her deep admiration for the contributions of Filipinos and the overwhelming support she has received from them.
Feeling so blessed and deeply honored by all the love on my last video. Thank you, Philippines 🇵🇭
I created the video with the 🇵🇭 flag to honor my incredible team—@richardlornanapenas , @DaDa_meow , and @archie—who are all proudly Filipino. We wanted to pay tribute to Filipino culture and the amazing Filipino community, especially here in the UAE, where their spirit, strength, and joy are such an essential part of everyday life.
Mahal kita, Philippines #philippines #tagalog #filipino #philippinestiktok
Check out her video below:
@boss_baby001k #bts #philippines #filipino #tagalog #philippinestiktok
♬ Philippines Anthem (Lupang Hinirang) – National Anthems Orchestra
The video’s release couldn’t be more timely, as the Filipino community gears up to celebrate Philippine Independence Day on June 12. Karolina’s act of solidarity has resonated deeply with viewers, particularly the Filipinos living in the UAE, a community widely recognized for their hard work, creativity, and cultural pride.
“We wanted to pay tribute to Filipino culture and the amazing Filipino community, especially here in the UAE, where their spirit, strength, and joy are such an essential part of everyday life” Karolina said. Her Reel quickly sparked a wave of gratitude and pride among Filipino viewers, many of whom commented to thank her for the heartfelt gesture.
Waving the iconic Philippine flag while gracefully riding a surfboard clad in a Filipiniana dress, Karolina’s video combines grace, courage, and cultural mindfulness in a vibrant display of creativity.
The video has since gone viral, garnering widespread admiration on social media. Thousands of reactions, shares, and comments highlight the emotional connection viewers felt to Karolina’s act. Many have praised her for showcasing the Filipino spirit with such authenticity and flair.
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