From self-awareness to social change: a model of social entrepreneurial intention

Purpose This study aims to examine the formation of social entrepreneurial intention (SEI) by extending intention-based models through the integration of mindfulness, social entrepreneurship networks (SENs) and generative consciousness for social innovation (GCSI). Design/methodology/approach Covariance-based structural equation modelling is applied to a sample of 523 university students in Mexico. Findings SENs and GCSI exert significant positive effects on SEI, while mindfulness operates indirectly through GCSI. Research limitations/implications The cross-sectional design and student sample limit temporal inference and generalizability beyond the Mexican university context. Practical implications Universities and support organizations should strengthen collaborative ecosystems and cultivate critical thinking, ethical sensitivity, empathy and reflective capacities. Social implications The findings support entrepreneurship education aligned with socially responsible action and the sustainable development goals. Originality/value The study validates an integrative framework connecting psychological, ethical and relational dimensions in the emergence of socially oriented entrepreneurial action.