Who we are
SoberAF was founded by Nicky Wake, a serial entrepreneur who’s in early recovery. Disillusioned by traditional recovery programmes, Nicky created SoberAF as a rebellious, empowering alternative for people like her.
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SoberAF aims to be a global movement that flips the script on traditional recovery, offering a fresh, no-BS approach to living sober. Meet the team behind the movement.
Nicky Wake
Founder & Entrepreneur
From Manchester's vibrant 90s party scene, including podium dancing at the Haçienda, I transitioned to events management, founding Don't Panic Events, which grew into a global operation. After losing my partner, I turned to alcohol while managing my businesses and a grieving child.
A 28-day rehab program at the Priory in November 2024 marked a turning point. Grief fueled innovation, leading me to launch dating platforms for underserved communities like Chapter 2, WidowsFire, and Sober Love. Now sober, my business philosophy centers on empathy and innovation, creating solutions for these communities through connection.
Jeannette Jackson
Director, Manchester Stress Institute | Expert in Corporate Health & Wellbeing
Jeannette Jackson is a biochemist, elite sports scientist, published author, and leading authority on burnout, physical performance and mental resilience. As Founder and Director of the award-winning Manchester Stress Institute, she has spent over two decades delivering science-led burnout, mental health and resilience programmes to global organisations.
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Backed by a team of expert doctors, scientists, and psychologists, Jeannette leads dynamic workshops on mental health, stress, burnout, sleep, menopause, nutrition, and performance recovery.
Her engaging and evidence-based approach empowers leaders and teams to build sustainable resilience, sharpen focus, and perform at their best—both in and out of the workplace.
Jane Montague
Jane Montague is a Manchester based, award winning charity consultant who first got the charity bug when she organised Comic Relief fundraising for her school way back in 1988! Now having officially worked within and for the Third Sector for over 25 years, Jane's clients range from small local organisations to large national and international household name charities, advising and training them on brand, ethics, partnerships, and Tax. Alongside her consultancy, Jane also is a director in her family's business, and has been the designer and Lead Tutor of a Fundraising Apprenticeship programme.
Charity Consultant
Dr Subramaniam Ramakrishnan
Consultant Gastroenterologist
MBBS, MD, MRCP
Consultant gastroenterologist with a specialist interest in all aspects of endoscopy, gastroenterology, liver and pancreatic disease.
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Joint lead for management of alcohol related liver disease for the AQuA programme, which focuses on improving the quality of healthcare, including addressing alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD).
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I am the MAC member for gastroenterology and endoscopy at Spire Cheshire Hospital. I am also a trustee at St Rocco's Hospice. In addition to my clinical commitments I am the advancing quality lead for the trust.
Jodie Thomason
Part of the sober social scene for the last 2 years, Jodie is passionate about finding connection, fun and belonging without the need for alcohol - and to help others do the same.
Along with her experience of arranging sober events and get togethers, she is always on the lookout for fresh ideas and opportunities to help grow and bring together this incredible community. She believes that sobriety is fun, vibrant, full of possibilities and most importantly something to be truly proud of.
Maxwell Hamilton
Hi, I’m Maxwell (or Max)! I stopped drinking in January 2024 after realising alcohol was having a negative impact on my life. Some health issues made the decision even clearer, and I haven’t looked back.
These days I spend a lot of time at the gym or out running, and I’ve noticed how much more energy and free time I have at the weekends. I also enjoy getting out in nature, exploring culture, and spending time with my cat, Fernabelle.
My friends would probably call me the organised and reliable one. For me, being part of Sober AF is about helping others build a new sense of identity after drinking and knowing they don’t have to do it alone.
Katie Stead
I started my journey of change in 2013 aged 38. In October 2025, I will be 12 years sober, from the grips of alcohol addiction. My journey from hopeless to the woman I am today is nothing short of amazing. Today I am free from chains, and living life as the best version of me. Alcohol stole so much from me, mainly my soul. Today my life is a far cry from those shackles.
Since leaving school I have always worked in the field of Adult Social Care. Currently I am an Alcohol Recovery Co-ordinator - I work front line with people wanting to change their relationship with alcohol. My dedication, passion and commitment to this subject matter is as high as it gets. I am very grateful to be here. Grateful to be free and committed to be able to pass that on to others with care, understanding knowledge, support and JOY!
Get involved
We're building SoberAF from the ground up—and we can't do it without you.
We’re calling on our community for support, involvement, and feedback as we grow. Whether you can volunteer your time, share your ideas, or lend your expertise, there’s a place for you.
We're especially looking for people to help us:
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Moderate and support online spaces
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Lead local groups
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Organize meet-ups and events
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Fundraise
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Contribute to marketing and PR efforts
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Join our board to shape strategy and planning
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Let’s build the revolution together.
Become a partner
SoberAF thrives on collaboration, so we’re always looking for like-minded organisations and individuals to join us in our mission.
If you're interested in partnering with SoberAF, learn more about opportunities here. If you are interested in joining us on our Board email nicky@soberaf.club
