Nigerian music sensation Tems has officially entered the world of sports ownership, making history as the first African female involved in Major League Soccer (MLS) ownership. The Grammy-winning artist has joined the ownership group of San Diego FC (SDFC) through her company, The Leading Vibe, further cementing her influence beyond music.
A Historic Move in MLS
San Diego FC announced Tems as a Club Partner, highlighting her role in shaping the team’s vision and outreach. This marks a groundbreaking moment not just for the club but also for African representation in sports ownership. Her involvement brings a fresh cultural perspective to the growing MLS franchise, reinforcing the club’s commitment to creativity, diversity, and community empowerment.
SDFC Chairman Sir Mohamed Mansour expressed his excitement, stating, “Tems is a globally significant artist who will help us to reach new audiences and spread the word about our unique project, which of course has its foundations in sub-Saharan Africa through the unique Right to Dream organization.”
Blending Music, Culture, and Sport
As a two-time Grammy winner and Oscar-nominated artist, Tems has captivated audiences worldwide with her soulful, innovative sound. Now, she’s bringing that same passion and creativity to San Diego FC. According to SDFC CEO Tom Penn, “Tems is an extraordinary artist and cultural force worldwide. Her passion for empowering the next generation aligns perfectly with our mission.”
Her commitment to youth empowerment aligns with the club’s core values, particularly through its partnership with the Right to Dream Academy—an organization dedicated to nurturing young football talents globally.
Building a Star-Studded Ownership Group
Tems joins an impressive lineup of Club Partners, including Hollywood actress Issa Rae, World Cup-winning footballer Juan Mata, retired U.S. Navy SEAL Jocko Willink, and San Diego Padres MLB All-Star Manny Machado. This diverse group of owners brings a unique blend of entertainment, sports, and leadership expertise to San Diego FC, ensuring a strong cultural and competitive presence in MLS.
A Vision for the Future
Excited about her new role, Tems shared, “I am thrilled to join San Diego FC’s ownership group and to be part of a Club that celebrates creativity, culture, and the power of community. Football has a unique way of bringing people together, and I am excited to help build something special in San Diego, a city that thrives on diversity and innovation.”
Her involvement with San Diego FC also comes in partnership with Pave Investments, an African private investment firm known for its commitment to sports and youth development. Pave Investments was previously involved in an investment group supporting NBA Africa in 2021, further showcasing a growing African influence in global sports.
With Tems onboard, San Diego FC is poised to become not just a football club but a cultural movement, uniting music, sports, and global communities in a way that has never been seen before in MLS.