Nigerian Grammy Award-winning singer, Tems has made history by becoming the first African female to join the ownership group of a Major League Soccer (MLS) club. San Diego FC (SDFC) officially announced her inclusion, marking a significant milestone for African representation in global sports investment.
Tems joins San Diego FC in partnership with Pave Investments, an African private investment firm known for its involvement in NBA Africa’s landmark investment in 2021. Alongside her, Tunde Folawiyo, Chairman of Pave Investments, and Kwamena Afful, Founding Director, are also becoming part of the club’s ownership. This move highlights a growing trend of African business and entertainment figures investing in international sports.
Expressing her excitement, Tems shared her vision for this partnership. “Football is a unifying force across the world, and I’m honored to be part of a club that values diversity, culture, and the global reach of the sport,” she said. Her involvement in the club is expected to bring a fresh cultural perspective and strengthen ties between African football enthusiasts and MLS.
San Diego FC also announced that American actress, producer, and entrepreneur Issa Rae has joined the ownership group as a club partner. Issa Rae, known for her role in promoting diversity and representation in entertainment, adds another influential voice to the club’s leadership. “This is an incredible opportunity to be part of something that brings people together, and I’m thrilled to contribute to the growth of soccer in the U.S.,” she stated.
With the addition of Tems and Issa Rae, San Diego FC is making strides in embracing cultural diversity and global inclusion within its leadership. The club’s ownership group now includes a mix of entertainment, business, and sports figures, reflecting a modern approach to football management.
San Diego FC, set to make its MLS debut in 2025, has been actively building its brand with high-profile partnerships and investments. The club’s leadership believes that figures like Tems and Rae will help expand its global fan base and enhance engagement, particularly among younger and more diverse audiences.
As anticipation grows for San Diego FC’s entry into the MLS, the inclusion of influential personalities like Tems marks a turning point for African representation in international sports ownership.
