Everyone, thank you so much for the replies. The distinction between social medias and forums must be made, but what would drive someone to post on a forum, compared to a Facebook group, or a subreddit? I still am somewhat unconvinced that the conversation has not moved from forums to social media giants.
I have always considered creating my own forums and building my own community. To me, it felt like the explosion of social media platforms have sucked life away from user-owned community forums. I wish forums were still popular, but I just can't but help to feel as if the platform is a thing of the past (for the most part). However, I do feel optimistic for the future, with the current pressure on social media platforms to be more "platform" rather than "publisher." People are getting worried that Zuckerberg and Dorsey have too much influence and power and control the flow of information on their platforms too much.
Other than reactive themes, has the SMF development team considered making the platform more mobile-friendly? I think if SMF was more geared towards mobile, while also respecting PC users, it could boost activity.
SMF is the best forum software on the market, hands down. It provides all of the functionality one would need to start their own community, without spending money on the forum software. No need to pay a fortune for other softwares which provide the same functionality.
Ultimately, I came here for advice, as someone who is very ambitious and wishes to start their own community, but has a nagging feeling that it may just not be worth it.