Nicky Wake

Biography (first person, informal)

I’m Nicky Wake - entrepreneur, community-builder, and author-in-progress, known for turning personal adversity into powerful platforms for connection.

With two decades at the crossroads of events, tech, and wellbeing, I specialise in building digital communities for those navigating life’s toughest transitions. My proudest achievement? Launching a portfolio of niche dating and support apps that have empowered thousands. My mission is simple, if ambitious: a million happy endings.

From Nightlife to New Beginnings

Before tragedy rewrote my story, I lived a life full of contradictions. Born in Liverpool but an adopted Mancunian since 1990, I was a vibrant part of Manchester’s 90s party scene. The iconic Haçienda was my second home, and I thrived on the adrenaline of podium dancing and promoting legendary venues like The Paradise Factory. I lived for the moment, fuelled by the energy of a city that never stopped moving.

My passion for events soon took centre stage. From running front of house at the legendary Mash & Air to leading events at the Trafford Centre, I discovered my true calling. This drive led me to found Don’t Panic Events, which grew into a global operation - producing 22 prestigious awards shows, employing 20 talented individuals, and weathering the storm of a global pandemic.

Turning Loss into Legacy

Everything changed in 2020 with the sudden loss of my husband, Andy and grief became an unexpected catalyst. I launched Chapter 2, a dating and community app for widows and widowers, now supporting over 15,000 members worldwide.

Recognising the need for spaces that honor all aspects of life, I created WidowsFire, a platform to rediscover intimacy after bereavement.

My own journey through addiction and recovery inspired Sober Love, a dating app for the sober and sober-curious, and Sober AF, a peer-to-peer support network redefining sobriety.

Across these ventures, I’ve secured investment, built thriving communities, and helped tens of thousands find hope and connection.

What I Bring to The Stage

As a speaker, I turn two decades of community-building, digital innovation, and event leadership into talks that resonate.

My lived experience fuels every story I share, making complex challenges relatable and actionable for any audience. I’m known for my empathy, authenticity, and ability to connect - whether I’m unpacking resilience, entrepreneurship, grief, sobriety, or the power of human connection. Expect honest insights, humour, and practical takeaways that inspire real change.

Learning & Growth

My education is a blend of formal training and hard-won life lessons. I’ve completed executive leadership and digital innovation programs, and my time in rehab at The Priory gave me profound insights into resilience and self-awareness.

I’m committed to ongoing learning, regularly attending industry events and mentoring others in the events and tech sectors.

Beyond the Bio

Off stage, I’m a proud Liverpudlian-turned-Mancunian, a former podium dancer, and a passionate advocate for mental health and community.

My values - authenticity, empathy, and courage - shape every talk I give. I believe in the power of storytelling to inspire change and help others find hope, even in the darkest moments.

I bring a unique blend of lived experience, entrepreneurial grit, and creative vision to every speaking engagement.

If you’re seeking a speaker who can move, motivate, and empower your audience - I’d love to collaborate. To book me or discuss your next event, please get in touch.

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Biography (third person, more formal)

Nicky Wake – Entrepreneur & Resilience Expert

Nicky Wake is an award-winning entrepreneur, community builder, and resilience expert. She turns personal adversity into platforms for connection.

With over twenty years’ experience in events and community building, Nicky helps people through life’s toughest transitions.

As the founder of Don't Panic Events, Nicky built a global operation producing 22 prestigious awards shows and managing a team of 20.

Following the sudden loss of her husband in 2020, she channeled her grief into purpose by launching Chapter 2. The app now supports over 15,000 widowed members worldwide.

Nicky's entrepreneurial portfolio also includes WidowsFire. A place to rediscover intimacy after bereavement. And Sober Love, a dating app for the sober community inspired by her own recovery journey. Through these projects, she has secured investment, built thriving communities, and helped tens of thousands find hope and connection.

On stage, Nicky speaks about grief, entrepreneurship, and the power of connection. She blends lived experience with practical advice, giving audiences both emotional resonance and fearless storytelling.

Known for her authenticity and humour, Nicky makes taboo topics relatable. A proud Liverpudlian (turned-Mancunian) with roots in Manchester's vibrant 90s cultural scene. Nicky brings a unique perspective shaped by her journey from nightlife promoter to purpose-driven entrepreneur.

Nicky’s mission is simple but ambitious: creating a million happy endings, in spite of life's most challenging chapters.