San Diego FC (SDFC) has been making headlines with its recent high-profile additions to its ownership group. Just a day after actress and producer Issa Rae joined the club, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Tems has become the latest member to join the ownership group. This move marks a significant step for SDFC as it continues to build a diverse and influential team to support its vision and mission.
Issa Rae, known for her work on the hit HBO series “Insecure,” joined SDFC as a club partner earlier this week. Her involvement aligns with the club’s commitment to uplifting and representing the vibrant community of San Diego3. Rae expressed her excitement about being part of a club that celebrates creativity, culture, and the power of community. She emphasized the universal language of soccer and its ability to bring people together3.
Following closely on Rae’s heels, Tems, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, has also joined the ownership group through her company, The Leading Vibe. Tems, a two-time Grammy Award-winning artist, has captivated audiences worldwide with her soulful and distinctive sound4. Her work on the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack, specifically the song “Lift Me Up,” earned her Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations. Additionally, her contributions to Future’s chart-topping single “Wait for U” and her own hit “Love Me JeJe” have solidified her status as a global icon1.
Tems’ addition to the ownership group is seen as a major win for SDFC. Her cultural influence and commitment to empowering the next generation align perfectly with the club’s vision1. SDFC Chairman Sir Mohamed Mansour expressed his delight at having Tems join the club, highlighting her ability to reach new audiences and spread the word about the club’s unique project. The project is rooted in the Right to Dream organization, which focuses on nurturing talent from sub-Saharan Africa.
SDFC CEO Tom Penn echoed Mansour’s sentiments, praising Tems’ passion for creating opportunities for young talent both domestically and globally. He emphasized the importance of creating meaningful connections between the music world and San Diego FC, uniting communities through the shared power of culture and sport1. Tems herself expressed her excitement about joining the ownership group and being part of a club that celebrates creativity, culture, and the power of community.
Tems’ journey to SDFC began with her partnership with Pave Investments, an African private investment firm. The firm has been involved in various strategic investments, including leading a group of investors to invest in NBA Africa in 20212. This collaboration further strengthens SDFC’s commitment to merging sports, culture, and social impact.
The addition of Tems and Issa Rae to the ownership group is part of SDFC’s broader strategy to build a world-class football club that reflects the diversity and energy of San Diego. The club is set to make its Major League Soccer (MLS) debut on February 23, 2025, against the LA Galaxy4. With the support of influential figures like Rae and Tems, SDFC aims to make a lasting impact both on and off the pitch.
The club’s other notable partners include World Cup-winning footballer Juan Mata, retired U.S. Navy SEAL Jocko Willink, and founding partner and San Diego Padres’ MLB All-Star Manny Machado. Together, they form a formidable team dedicated to achieving excellence and community engagement.
As SDFC continues to grow and make its mark in the world of soccer, the contributions of Rae and Tems will undoubtedly play a crucial role in its success. Their passion for empowering the next generation and their commitment to creating opportunities for young talent will help shape the future of the club and inspire communities around the world.
In conclusion, the addition of Tems and Issa Rae to the San Diego FC ownership group is a testament to the club’s vision and commitment to excellence. With their influence and dedication, SDFC is poised to become a leading force in Major League Soccer, uniting communities through the power of sport and culture. As the club prepares for its debut, the excitement and anticipation continue to build, promising a bright future for San Diego FC and its fans.
