Nigerian music sensation Tems has expanded her influence beyond the recording studio by joining the ownership group of Major League Soccer’s San Diego FC. This move makes her the first African female to hold an ownership stake in an MLS club.
The 2X Grammy winner, celebrated for her soulful voice and impactful songwriting, expressed her enthusiasm about the venture, stating, “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.“
San Diego FC’s Chairman, Sir Mohamed Mansour, welcomed Tems to the ownership group, highlighting her global significance and the alignment of her values with the club’s mission. He noted that her involvement would help the club reach new audiences and spread the word about their unique project, which has its foundations in sub-Saharan Africa through the Right to Dream organization.
Tems joins a distinguished group of club partners, including actress Issa Rae, World Cup-winning footballer Juan Mata, retired U.S. Navy SEAL Jocko Willink, and San Diego Padres’ All-Star Manny Machado. Her participation underscores the growing intersection between music, culture, and sports, and reflects her commitment to empowering communities and creating opportunities for young talent both domestically and globally.
This partnership was facilitated through Pave Investments, an African private investment firm, whose Chairman, Tunde Folawiyo, and Founding Director, Kwamena Afful, will also join the SDFC ownership group. This collective of influential figures will work to amplify the missions of both Right to Dream and San Diego FC, focusing on inspiring and empowering community.
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