Tems Becomes First African Woman to Join San Diego FC Ownership

Tems Becomes First African Woman to Join San Diego FC Ownership

San Diego, CA - In a groundbreaking move for sports and entertainment, Tems, the Grammy award-winning Nigerian singer, has been announced as the first African woman to join the ownership group of Major League Soccer's newest expansion team, San Diego FC (SDFC).

Tems, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, steps into this role through her company, The Leading Vibe, in partnership with Pave Investments, an African private investment firm with a notable portfolio in sports and entertainment. This collaboration marks a significant moment not only in sports but in cultural representation within the MLS.

A Historic Partnership

The announcement was made on February 12, 2025, highlighting Tems' commitment to culture, creativity, and community, values that align seamlessly with SDFC's vision. "Tems is not just an extraordinary artist and cultural force worldwide; she embodies the spirit of creativity, community, and excellence that San Diego FC stands for," said Tom Penn, CEO of San Diego FC.

The partnership with Pave Investments also brings Pave's chairman Tunde Folawiyo and founding director Kwamena Afful into the ownership group, further solidifying the connection between sports, culture, and investment in Africa.

Cultural and Community Impact

Tems expressed her enthusiasm about the venture, stating, "Joining San Diego FC is about more than just football. It's about bringing together music, culture, and sports to unite communities. I'm excited to be part of this innovative and diverse community in San Diego, especially through initiatives like Right to Dream, which are set to empower young people."

SDFC's commitment to community and youth development through the Right to Dream academy resonates with Tems' own journey from Lagos to global stardom. This initiative aims to provide young athletes with education, life skills, and opportunities to excel in football, reflecting a holistic approach to sports development.

A New Chapter in MLS

San Diego FC, gearing up for its inaugural season in 2025, has already been making waves with its inclusive and forward-thinking approach. With Tems on board, the club not only gains a global ambassador but also a symbol of cultural crossover and empowerment. Her influence in music, combined with her new role in sports, is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the team and its fanbase.

As San Diego FC prepares for its debut, the inclusion of Tems in its ownership group is a testament to the club's vision of diversity, community engagement, and global outreach. This partnership is poised to inspire a new generation of athletes and fans, blending the vibrant worlds of music and football in a way that has rarely been seen before in the MLS.

Tems' journey from the vibrant music scenes of Lagos to the sports arenas of San Diego marks a pivotal moment in her career and in the narrative of sports ownership, showcasing how music and sports can intersect to create something truly unique and influential.