Culture is More Than a Concert It’s a Tool for Changing the City and People’s Lives
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WOMAN
As Chair of the Board of the Concert
Hall Endowment Fund, you stand at the
birth of a building that Ostrava has been
waiting for for over 150 years. How
did you come to this – and what does
it mean to you?
I believe everyone wants to do things
in life that make sense to them, and it’s
the same for me. I see culture as a tool for
enriching and cultivating people, but also
as an opportunity for rest and for bringing
people together. The chance simply
came along to create, here in Ostrava
and together with others, something that
will carry this principle for many generations
to come – with enormous potential
both architecturally and functionally.
The Janáček Philharmonic needs facilities
that match its ambitions. At the same
time, Ostrava and its residents deserve
a symbol that shows the world that the city
has fundamentally transformed itself,
opened up, and built a unique cultural-
technological base for future generations.
What challenges do you face within
the foundation – in negotiations, public
communication, or fundraising?
Fundraising is a relatively young discipline
in our region, but that gives us the chance
to do it our own way – through true
partnerships and with added value. It’s not
just about logos in a programme. We want
companies to be genuine partners who
help us shape the cultural environment
together. The greatest challenge is often
finding a common language.
What keeps you motivated when situations
become difficult, drawn-out, or uncertain?
I have a strong inner drive – when things
get complicated, it accelerates and pushes
me toward a point where I usually start to see
the light at the end of the tunnel. And when
my energy runs low, I have an amazing team
around me that gives that energy back. Lately,
I’ve also found great motivation in meeting
like-minded women through the Inspire
and Impact community, which supports
and empowers active women.
How do you balance your personal
and professional life? How do you maintain
your energy and motivation?
I believe in the principle of kalokagathia –
the harmony of body and soul. I actively
take part in triathlons and long mountain
runs, and I’ve completed more than ten
medium- and long-distance Ironman races.
Sport helps me clear my mind and keep
perspective. But my greatest source
of energy is my daughter – the moments
we share give my life meaning and remind
me why I do what I do.
Thank you for the interview.
It’s important to teach children
to feel rhythms, to recognise
emoons and to listen.