Quick Read: Tems, the Nigerian GRAMMY-winning artist, has joined San Diego FC’s ownership group through her company, The Leading Vibe. Her passion for community and creative spirit align with the club’s mission to unite communities. Tems brings her global influence to the club alongside other notable partners. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to empowering young talent and diversity in sports.
San Diego FC (SDFC) has announced that 2x GRAMMY® Award-winning, Oscar-nominated Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer Tems has joined the club’s ownership group through her company, The Leading Vibe. Known for her warm, vibrant sound and creative spirit, Tems brings her passion for community to the world of soccer as SDFC’s newest Club Partner.
A New Era for San Diego FC
“We are delighted that Tems has joined San Diego FC as a Club Partner,” said SDFC Chairman Sir Mohamed Mansour. “Tems is a globally significant artist who will help us reach new audiences and spread the word about our unique project, which has its foundations in sub-Saharan Africa through the unique Right to Dream organization.”
SDFC CEO Tom Penn echoed these sentiments, saying, “Tems is an extraordinary artist and cultural force worldwide. Her passion for empowering the next generation aligns perfectly with our mission. Her commitment to creating opportunities for young talent domestically and globally reflects the core values of Right to Dream. We also look forward to creating meaningful connections between the music world and San Diego FC, uniting communities through the shared power of culture and sport.”
Celebrating Tems’ Accomplishments
Tems has captivated audiences globally with her music. She earned a GRAMMY Award for Best African Music Performance for “Love Me JeJe” from her debut album Born In The Wild. She also won a GRAMMY for her contribution to Future’s chart-topping, triple platinum single “Wait for U.” In addition, Tems received Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for her work on “Lift Me Up,” the lead single from the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack.
Her artistry and authenticity have made her a cultural icon and symbol of empowerment—values that align seamlessly with San Diego FC’s vision to unite communities through soccer.
Tems on Joining San Diego FC
“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,” said Tems. “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.”
A Distinguished Group of Club Partners
Tems joins an impressive lineup of San Diego FC Club Partners, including:
- Trailblazing actress Issa Rae
- World Cup-winning footballer Juan Mata
- Retired U.S. Navy SEAL Jocko Willink
- Founding partner and San Diego Padres MLB All-Star Manny Machado
Partnership with Pave Investments
Tems’ partnership with San Diego FC is facilitated through Pave Investments, an African private investment firm that led an investment group in NBA Africa in 2021. Tunde Folawiyo, Chairman of Pave Investments, and Kwamena Afful, Founding Director of Pave Investments, will also join the San Diego FC ownership group.
Together, this diverse group of global influencers brings their platforms, influence, and commitment to amplify the missions of Right to Dream Academy and San Diego FC—inspiring and empowering communities on and off the pitch.
