by POPSUGAR Smart Living 3

Each of these ladies caught our attention during the year, promoting awareness for a worthy cause and stepping up as career role models and entertainers — so to continue our coverage of the Best of 2009, it's up to you to choose the female standout for our best role model of the year. We know it's not easy — each woman gave us a reason to be inspired throughout the year, and now it's your choice to see who takes the title — get voting!

What else wowed us this year? Check out some of the biggest headlines of 2009 and cast your votes in my Best of 2009 polls!