A light source comprises a GeSn active zone inserted between two contact zones. The active zone is formed directly on a silicon oxide layer by a first lateral epitaxial growth of a Ge germination layer followed by a second lateral epitaxial growth of a GeSn base layer. A cavity is formed between the contact zones by encapsulation and etching, so as to guide these lateral growths. A vertical growth of GeSn is then achieved from the base layer to form a structural layer. The active zone is formed in the stack of base and structural layers.