Abstract: Social entrepreneurship is a new innovative means of solving intractable world problems such as poverty, inequality, joblessness, poor health, and poor education. Unlike conventional methods that prioritize maximizing profits, social entrepreneurship integrates economic, social, and environmental objectives to establish enduring value for the society. This study looks at how social entrepreneurship contributes to inclusive growth and community empowerment, with a young people’s perspective on social enterprise. Data from 182 undergraduate students in Malaysia were analyzed using a quantitative, cross-sectional survey technique and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Perceived capability, civic consciousness, community support, and previous enterprise experience are found to bear strong impacts on youth social enterprise predisposition, whereas emotional sensitivity exerts weaker influence. The findings underscore the multi-dimensional drivers of young people’s participation in social enterprises and reinforce the capacity of social entrepreneurship as a driver of equity, participation, and sustainable development. Theory and practice are both enhanced by the presentation of insights into how social entrepreneurship contributes towards enhancing structural disparities, enhancing community resilience, and supplementing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

ःKeywordsSocial Entrepreneurship; Inclusive Development; Community Empowerment; Youth Social Enterprise Orientation (YSEO); Civic Awareness; Perceived Competence.