Monelisi Gaji brings extensive experience in international shipping, freight forwarding and special projects. His career includes working with established logistics companies such as UTi Integrated Logistics, DHL, Turner Shipping and Bidvest Panalpina Logistics (BPL)/Bidvest Logistics, before joining Exhibition Freighting G.S.M South Africa (EF-GSM).
His journey from freight operations into project management and operational leadership has given him a broad understanding of international cargo movements, customs processes, costing and client service.
As Director of Operations at EF-GSM, Monelisi plays a key role in coordinating exhibition freight and special projects. He connects clients with worldwide agents and service partners, overseeing international shipping enquiries from quotation through to delivery and return arrangements. His contribution centres on turning complex client requirements into practical logistics solutions, resolving operational challenges and keeping clients, agents and onsite teams aligned.
Developing people is central to his leadership approach. Monelisi has helped others grow into leaders under his guidance. He believes a good leader develops leaders around him—people who can take ownership, make decisions and share responsibility. This builds a capable team and makes leadership more effective.
As a soccer coach, Monelisi brings a strong belief in teamwork into his professional life. He believes in his team members and recognises that success depends on their individual contributions and collective effort. Whether on the field or in the workplace, he encourages trust, mutual support and shared responsibility, giving people the confidence to contribute and succeed together.
He is a strong supporter of EF-GSM’s Earn as You Learn programme, valuing its role in developing future leaders and creating opportunities for disadvantaged young men. His commitment to mentoring reflects his belief that practical experience, encouragement and responsibility can help young people build meaningful careers.
A notable career highlight was achieving joint third place in the Best Student awards at the 2023 IELA Winter Seminar, representing EF-GSM South Africa.
Monelisi combines practical expertise with an approachable leadership style, a commitment to client service and a belief that lasting success comes from developing and trusting the people around him.