San Diego FC (SDFC) is proud to announce the addition of 2x GRAMMY® Award-winning, Oscar-nominated singer, songwriter, and producer Tems to its ownership group. Through her company, The Leading Vibe, the Lagos, Nigeria-based artist joins SDFC as a Club Partner, bringing her creative spirit, passion for community, and global influence to the world of soccer. Known for her effortless, one-of-a-kind sound and commitment to empowering the next generation, Tems aligns perfectly with SDFC’s mission to unite communities through the power of sport and culture.
“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 Right to Dream organization.”
Tems has captivated audiences worldwide with her music, earning accolades such as a GRAMMY Award for Best African Music Performance for “Love Me JeJe” from her acclaimed debut album Born In The Wild. She also won a GRAMMY for her work on Future’s chart-topping, triple-platinum single “Wait for U” and received Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for her contribution to “Lift Me Up,” the lead single from the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack. Her artistry and authenticity have made her an icon of empowerment and cultural connection—values that resonate deeply with San Diego FC’s vision.
“Tems is an extraordinary artist and cultural force worldwide,” said SDFC CEO Tom Penn. “We are honored to have her join our Club and bring her visionary perspective to San Diego FC. Her passion for empowering the next generation aligns perfectly with our mission, and 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.”
As a Lagos, Nigeria native, Tems brings a unique perspective to SDFC’s ownership group, which includes trailblazing actress Issa Rae, World Cup-winning footballer Juan Mata, retired U.S. Navy SEAL Jocko Willink, and founding partner and San Diego Padres’ perennial MLB All-Star Manny Machado. Tems’ involvement underscores SDFC’s commitment to diversity, innovation, and global collaboration.
“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.”
Tems joins SDFC in partnership with Pave Investments, an African private investment firm that has been instrumental in supporting initiatives such as NBA Africa. As part of this collaboration, 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 leaders brings their individual platforms, influence, and personal commitment to amplify the mission of Right to Dream Academy and San Diego FC—to inspire and empower communities on and off the pitch.
About San Diego FC
San Diego FC is a professional soccer club set to make its debut in Major League Soccer (MLS). Rooted in the values of diversity, innovation, and community empowerment, SDFC is committed to creating a lasting impact both on and off the field. Through its partnership with Right to Dream Academy, the Club aims to inspire the next generation of talent and unite communities through the global game of soccer.
About Tems
Tems is a 2x GRAMMY Award-winning, Oscar-nominated singer, songwriter, and producer from Lagos, Nigeria. Known for her warm, vibrational sound and authentic artistry, she has become a global icon of empowerment and cultural connection. Through her company, The Leading Vibe, Tems continues to push creative boundaries while championing opportunities for young talent worldwide.