San Diego FC has announced that two-time Grammy Award-winning, Oscar-nominated Nigerian singer, songwriter and producer, Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has joined the club’s ownership group through her company, The Leading Vibe.
Known for her captivating sound and influence in music, Tems brings her creative spirit and passion for community to the soccer world as a Club Partner.
“We are delighted that Tems has joined San Diego FC as a Club Partner,” said SDFC Chairman, Sir Mohamed Mansour.
“Tems is an artist of global significance, and her involvement will help us reach new audiences, spreading the word about our unique project rooted in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly through the Right to Dream organisation.”
San Diego FC CEO Tom Penn also expressed enthusiasm, stating, “Tems is an extraordinary cultural force and artist.
“We are honored to have her join our club and bring her visionary perspective. Her commitment to empowering the next generation aligns perfectly with our mission, and her passion for creating opportunities for young talent locally and globally reflects the core values of Right to Dream.
“We look forward to bridging the worlds of music and football, uniting communities through the power of culture and sport.”
Tems has achieved international success, earning a Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance for her song “Love Me JeJe” from her debut album ‘Born In The Wild’, as well as another GRAMMY for her work on Future’s triple platinum single ‘Wait for U’.
She also received Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for her contribution to “Lift Me Up,” the lead single from the ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ soundtrack.
Tems’ artistry and authenticity have made her a symbol of empowerment and cultural unity, values that align with SDFC’s mission to bring people together through football.
“I’m thrilled to join San Diego FC’s ownership group and be part of a club that celebrates creativity, culture, and community,” said Tems.
“Football has a unique power to unite people, and I am excited to contribute to building something special in San Diego, a city that thrives on diversity and innovation.”
Tems joins a distinguished group of SDFC Club Partners that includes actress Issa Rae, World Cup-winning footballer Juan Mata, retired U.S.
Navy SEAL Jocko Willink, and MLB All-Star Manny Machado of the San Diego Padres. Each of these partners shares a commitment to excellence and community engagement, and Tems’ addition further strengthens the club’s diverse ownership.
Additionally, Tems is partnering with Pave Investments, an African private investment firm involved in leading a group to invest in NBA Africa’s entity in 2021.
Along with her, Tunde Folawiyo, Chairman of Pave Investments, and Kwamena Afful, Founding Director of Pave Investments, will join the San Diego FC ownership group.
This collective brings a wealth of global influence and a deep commitment to amplifying the mission of Right to Dream Academy and San Diego FC, with a focus on inspiring and empowering communities both on and off the field.
