People - Kalliopi

Diana Vítečková, David Sommer, Niki Sommerová, René Sommer

The fund was established by Niki and René Sommer, associated with the Kofola Group, who decided to systematically focus their philanthropic activities on the field of culture and visual arts. The funds contributed to the endowment come from the family’s private resources, generated through long-term entrepreneurial activity.

Niki Sommerová
Founder and Chair of the Board

Daughter of Kalliopi. Initiator of the idea, founder, and Chair of the Board of Trustees. A passionate supporter of the arts and a philanthropist. She maintains a broad overview of contemporary exhibitions as well as current developments in literature, politics, and the arts, with a strong sensitivity to intergenerational and social issues. She believes in the potential of contemporary art to transform society — a conviction that led her to establish an endowment dedicated to its support.

René Sommer
Founder and Board Member

Son-in-law of Kalliopi. Founder and member of the Board of Trustees. He has held a number of senior positions at Kofola, working across finance, human resources, and legal departments. Within the Endowment, he serves as the principal financial analyst and strategist. His long-standing business experience helps shape the Endowment’s long-term vision. He is also the main advocate of the mentoring programme, which he sees as a key instrument for systematically sharing knowledge and strengthening the sustainability of artistic practice.

Diana Vítečková
Auditor

Granddaughter of Kalliopi; daughter of Niki and René; sister of David; mother of two daughters. She holds a degree in Finance from the Technical University of Ostrava (VSB – Technical University of Ostrava). She serves as the Endowment’s Auditor, overseeing clear and realistic goals and plans. At Kofola, she works on financial matters as well as on strategic projects, including the development of the company’s new headquarters in the Dolní oblast Vítkovice area and the art installation in front of the building.

David Sommer
Board Member

Grandson of Kalliopi; son of Niki and René; brother of Diana. Member of the Board of Trustees. He studied in the United Kingdom at the University of York, where he earned a Master’s degree in Environmental Science. He later applied this expertise at Kofola in the role of Sustainability Manager. He is also active in the non-profit organisation Kvapka Rajeckej doliny, which focuses on water retention and biodiversity support.

Jakub Frank
Executive Director
Curator and art historian; co-author of the Endowment’s strategy
Petra Krohe
PR, copywriter, and creator of digital content