Nicky Wake
Entrepreneur and Community Builder
Nicky Wake doesn’t shy away from life’s toughest topics—instead, she builds platforms around them. As a speaker, she challenges norms, sparks important conversations, and opens space for healing, connection and change. With over two decades of entrepreneurial success behind her, she brings not only insight but fearless honesty to the stage.
She founded Don’t Panic Events, a global awards and events agency generating more than £2 million annually and delivering top-tier shows across Europe, the US and the Middle East. Known for excellence and creativity, the company reflects Nicky’s talent for turning big ideas into standout experiences.
In 2022, she shifted focus and launched Chapter 2—the UK’s first dating app and community for widows and widowers. Within a year, it expanded internationally, serving thousands across three continents. Not long after, WidowsFire followed—an honest, refreshingly unapologetic platform helping people explore intimacy after loss.
Nicky’s ventures challenge stigma while achieving commercial success, proving you can disrupt an industry and do good at the same time. Her talks are honest, moving and filled with lessons about what it really means to lead with purpose.