This is the second in a series of learning briefs that explore the design, implementation and impact of Yizani Sifunde, a collaborative multi-pronged intervention designed to boost early literacy outcomes in 4- and 5-year-olds. The intervention was co-delivered by three leading South African NGOs, with two regional NGOs implementing part of the project locally. This brief focuses on: • the experience of the collaboration; and • the factors and practices that made it successful. In particular, it highlights the role played by the funder, Liberty Community Trust, the importance of clearly defined roles and collaboration modalities between project partners, and the learning mindset that helped improve the project design and adjust to unforeseen realities especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.