WHO WE ARE
Founded in 2005 by serial entrepreneur Nicky Wake, Don’t Panic started life as a small team working from a second bedroom. Since then, the company has grown steadily into an international events business, shaped by a long-standing commitment to creativity, innovation, and collaboration.
Today, Don’t Panic delivers a wide range of events, including award ceremonies, conferences, networking events, and exhibitions. Alongside client projects, the company also owns and produces its own portfolio of established awards programmes, many of which are recognised worldwide. Everything the team delivers is supported by hands-on experience, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for bringing people together through well-crafted events.
THE SOCIAL MEDIA AWARDS SERIES
The Social Media Awards series celebrates the campaigns, creators, agencies, and brands shaping conversations online and setting the standard for social excellence. From breakthrough creativity and community building to influencer marketing, paid social, and platform-first storytelling, the awards recognise the work that captures attention, sparks engagement, and delivers real business impact across an ever-evolving social landscape.
The series began in 2008 with the launch of the UK Social Media Awards, originally known as the Some Comms Awards, making it one of the longest-running programmes dedicated to social media excellence. Building on its success, the Global Social Media Awards launched in 2021, bringing together outstanding work from around the world and celebrating the teams and individuals redefining what’s possible on social. Together, the awards provide a platform to recognise innovation, reward creativity, and celebrate the people turning likes, shares, and scrolls into measurable success.
THE GLOBAL SOCIAL MEDIA AWARDS
Launched in 2021, the Global Social Media Awards recognise the campaigns, brands, agencies, creators, and teams pushing social media forward on an international stage. From viral creative and standout storytelling to community building, influencer marketing, paid social, and platform innovation, the awards celebrate the work that’s making an impact across the world’s biggest social channels. Whether you’re delivering exceptional engagement, driving real business results, or redefining what’s possible on social, this is where global success gets the recognition it deserves.
The Global Social Media Awards are accredited ‘Outstanding’ by the Independent Awards Standards Council’s Awards Trust Mark, giving entrants confidence in a judging process that’s transparent, ethical, and fair. Every entry is assessed by an independent panel of international industry experts, ensuring the very best work is recognised purely on its merit. Winning or being shortlisted isn’t just a trophy for the shelf – it’s a globally respected mark of excellence that showcases your achievements to clients, peers, and the wider industry.
