2026 Finalist – Nicky Wake

Nicky Wake is a serial entrepreneur and founder who turns overlooked problems into scalable, purpose-driven businesses.

She began her entrepreneurial journey over 20 years ago by founding Don’t Panic Events, an international B2B events and awards agency that now delivers 22 global awards programmes annually and employs a team of 20. Under her leadership, the business has grown into a respected international brand and successfully navigated major industry disruption, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

But everything changed after the loss of her husband Andy in 2020. While managing two successful businesses and parenting a grieving child, Nicky sought solace in the bottle. Eventually alcohol took its toll and in November 2024, she checked into the Priory for a 28-day rehab programme.

Grief became an unexpected catalyst for innovation. With no prior tech experience, she secured three rounds of investment to launch dating platforms designed for underserved communities, including Chapter 2, Widows Fire and her latest venture Sober Love – proof that even in the darkest moments, transformation is possible.

WidowsFire supports widows and widowers seeking connection without long-term commitment, while Sober Love serves the rapidly growing sober and sober-curious community who want to meet partners outside alcohol-centred social spaces.

These platforms serve over 15,000 users across multiple countries and are already responsible for 11 engagements and three marriages.

Each venture reflects a clear entrepreneurial strategy: identify underserved audiences, build targeted digital products, and scale communities with both commercial and social value.

Alongside her tech businesses, Nicky has also launched community initiatives including The Widowed Collective and Sober Rebel Society, strengthening her ecosystem of mission-led brands.

Today, Nicky leads multiple ventures, manages teams, serves international user bases, and continues to build businesses that sit at the intersection of innovation and impact. Her story is not just one of resilience, but of sharp commercial instinct, market insight, and execution.

Nicky Wake exemplifies modern entrepreneurship: bold, adaptive, opportunity-driven, and impact-focused. She will be sharing her story with us at the Inspiring Women Awards Lunch on 15th May 2026.