A 21-year-old is one of 10 young people handpicked to put on an event for Sir Richard Branson at the Royal Opera House.

Carlene Campbell, of Hathaway Close, Hainault, did not have high expectations when she, along with 1,500 others, applied to take part in The Project, an opportunity offered by the billionaire’s Virgin Media company.

But through a video application and two interviews, she convinced judges to give her the job of project manager, putting together a festival of live music performances and workshops for young people on September 7.

She said: “I wasn’t expecting to get as far as I did. I have to hold everything together and make sure everyone’s doing what they’re supposed to be doing.

“If they’re not, it sounds a bit rude, but I have to give them a kick up the backside.”

Carlene found out six weeks ago that she had been picked to be in the organising team and said it has been an “intense” experience working on it since.

Though she has to remain tight-lipped about some details, she promised two household names as headlining music acts at the Covent Garden event, called Impatience Is The Virtue.

Through stalls and networking opportunities, young people will get to meet representatives of government and business groups and possibly Richard Branson, according to Carlene.

The Virgin Group chairman will welcome people on the day.

Carlene said: “It’s all about inspiring the next generation.

“We’re really trying to encourage young people to get active, to give them information and give them the opportunity to put forward their ideas.”

Lee Scott, MP for Ilford North, said: “Positive initiatives for young people give a fantastic opportunity to gain invaluable experience.

“I’m thrilled that Carlene was selected and I can’t wait to see what the final event looks like.”

The event, is 18s and over and invitation only.

To register an interest, email Carlene at carlene@theprojectlive.co.uk.