Dubai-based surfer Karolina Sankiewicz goes viral for riding waves in high heels and Filipiniana.

Surf, stilettos, and Pinoy pride! Dubai-based wakesurfer Karolina Agata Sankiewicz, known online as the UAE’s “OG Surfer Barbie,” has stunned the internet once again—this time with a cultural twist. Just ahead of Philippine Independence Day on June 12, Karolina released a trio of viral videos showing her wakesurfing while wearing a traditional Filipiniana dress, high heels, and holding the Philippine flag—all in a single take. In one clip, she gracefully balances on a surfboard as her Filipino staff hands her ube cake. In another, she takes happy bites from a bucket of Jollibee fried chicken—all while in a full Filipiniana ensemble on the water. “I decided to create the video with the Philippine flag as my team members—Richard Napenas, Darylle James Mabale, and Archie (Manz)—are from the Philippines, and we wanted to honor Filipino culture and community, especially here in the UAE where the Filipino community is such a vibrant and essential part of society,” Karolina said. “I love you, Philippines.” Karolina’s homage has racked up millions of views across TikTok, Facebook and Instagram, with many Filipino netizens praising her for the joyful tribute. But this isn’t the first time she’s broken the internet. Karolina first went viral two years ago when she posted a video of herself surfing while applying makeup and carrying luxury shopping bags—garnering over 20 million views overnight. With a background in corporate finance and an MBA in International Business, Karolina reinvented herself as a full-time content creator and athlete in Dubai, after falling in love with wakesurfing three years ago. She now collaborates with global luxury brands and was recently honored as Glamorous Sports Influencer of the Year 2025 at the World Influencers and Bloggers Awards in Cannes. The main tribute video for Philippine Independence Day is currently in post-production and will be officially released on June 11. ICA/Expat Media
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