Video: Rihanna Accepts Glamour’s ’2009 Women Of The Year’ Award

What a year it’s been for Rihanna. There’s a list of unfortunate things that has happened to the pop princess — a very public assault ordeal and the leak of private nude photos to name a few — but she’s tackled each challenge with grace and humility, and is poised to come out of it all stronger than ever.

Glamour magazine took notice and named the 21-year-old Bajan sensation one of their 2009 Women of the Year. She was honored in a special ceremony held tonight in New York City.

Wearing a gorgeous white gown, Rihanna took the stage to accept the award having only found out she would have to speak hours before. After viewing a touching montage of accomplishments and kind words by her Def Jam boss Antonio “L.A.” Reid, Rih was overcome with emotion, tearing up before starting her speech. “I’m PMSing. Sorry,” she joked as she wiped away tears.

She said a quick “I love you” to fellow honoree, legendary poet Maya Angelou, but admitted her presence at the event made it “terribly more difficult for me.”

In her speech, she thank her mentor Jay-Z, her best friend Melissa, her glam squad (“They help me look cute.”), and her family who flew out from Barbados. But her biggest thanks was to her “two women of the year,” her mother and grandmother. “Without their unconditional love and guidance, I wouldn’t be here,” she said. “I hope I can be an example for young girls and women today.”