Heather McCarthy

Heather McCarthy is an educator, author, global literacy advocate, and humanitarian dedicated to empowering young people to believe that they can make a difference in the world. As a middle school media specialist outside Chicago, Heather creates opportunities for students to become leaders, changemakers, and advocates for their communities and for children around the world.

Her work in global literacy has been shaped by her partnership with the Tinogona Foundation and Dr. Tererai Trent, whose vision for expanding educational opportunities in rural Zimbabwe inspired Heather's first children's book, Tinogona: It Is Achievable. Inspired by the true experiences of children who walk long distances to attend school, the book celebrates perseverance, hope, community, and the belief that education is possible.

Heather is also the founder of Libraries for Zimbabwe, an initiative dedicated to helping bring libraries and greater access to books and learning resources to children in Zimbabwe. Through student-led service learning, fundraising, and global partnerships, she helps young people discover that they don't have to wait until they are adults to change the world.

Heather has been recognized nationally and internationally for her work in education, literacy, and service, including an ALA Mover & Shaker recognition and a Gold Women Changing the World Award in Children's Education.