Huynh Le Nghia Binh, born in 2008 and studying at Nong Lam University in HCM City, filled his backpack with handmade presents before boarding bus route 167, which he regularly takes to university.
He handed out gifts to female passengers and bus staff, as well as roadside vendors, classmates and women living near his accommodation.
Binh said the idea came after watching a dance performance at a competition, where he was moved by the female participants' dedication and perseverance.
Initially, he wanted to thank them with small gifts. But when a friend reminded him that Vietnamese Women's Day was approaching, he decided to extend the gesture to more women.
He recalled receiving presents from female friends on International Men's Day last year and being surprised with a birthday celebration.
"I wanted to make small gifts myself to give something back," he said.
Despite limited time and money as a student, Binh said preparing the gifts by hand was rewarding rather than stressful.
He chose bus route 167 because it is part of his daily routine, sometimes taking it as many as four times a day.
Although initially nervous about approaching strangers, he grew more confident after seeing their positive reactions.
One memorable moment came when a female bus attendant appeared puzzled by the unexpected present.
After realising it was for Vietnamese Women's Day, she happily told the driver that she, too, had received a gift.
Another passenger gently tapped Binh on the shoulder and thanked him with a smile before leaving the bus.
Binh said small presents could not solve life's difficulties but could make an ordinary day brighter.
He hoped the women receiving his gifts would always feel loved and experience more kindness in their lives.
