A young charity volunteer shocked the Queen when he told her of his two jobs at an event at St James’s Palace on Monday night.

Hakeem Ranger, 22, of Archway, was one of many involved with Community Service Volunteers who met Her Majesty to mark the organisation’s 50th anniversary.

The Queen looked taken aback as Hakeem, who suffers from learning difficulties, told her the charity had helped him find not one, but two jobs. “Two jobs?” she responded.

On meeting the Queen, who greeted the volunteers and representatives, Hakeem said: “It was kind of cool. It was pretty awesome.”

He added: “I was really happy to meet the Queen and tell her how being involved in the project that has helped me get two jobs, which she was delighted with.

“Meeting her was a fantastic opportunity and has made it all worthwhile.”

On joining CSV two years ago Hakeem was paired with 63-year-old volunteer, Judith Philip, in a bid to help him find employment.

Since then, Hakeem has started work in catering at Wembley Stadium and also as a customer advisor for Sainsbury’s.

Hakeem made clear how the organisation had helped him secure two jobs.

“Being involved in CSV and having Judith as a grand mentor has really helped me to develop my confidence and help me find work,” he said.

“I’d recommend it to anyone that has problems personally and professionally.”

The Queen has been a long- standing supporter of CSV, having celebrated its 21st anniversary in Buckingham Palace in 1983.

CVS chairman, Sir John Shortridge, said the support the organisation receives from the Royal Family is powerful. He said: “I think people make a huge personal commitment with their own lives and their time.

“And to be aware that the Royal Family are supporting what they’re doing is hugely powerful.”

For half a century CSV has been enabling people to take an active role in their communities. More than three million people have got involved in CSV – led projects to help and benefit others.