Singer and songwriter Vinka, real name Veronica Nakiyingi Luggya, has opened up about battling stress and depression early in her music career.She explained that harsh criticism from social media users took a toll on her mental well-being.The singer said that when she had just entered the music industry, she struggled with negative comments from people who constantly criticized and belittled her online.“When I had just started doing music, I went through stress and depression because of the words that were being spoken against me. But as I kept growing, I developed a tough skin and got used to people’s words.”Vinka also reflected on her first experience performing on stage, saying she made her debut with her song Level at Nsambya Girls’ School.“My first time on stage was with a song called Level at Nsambya Girls. It was okay because it was a school event, so I didn’t find it difficult.”Despite her years in the industry, Vinka admitted that she still experiences stage fright before performances. However, she said the anxiety usually disappears once the music starts playing.Even on stage, I get stage fright, but it changes when the music starts. I don’t know what happens, but I just get into the mood. Every time I take the stage, I get stage fright depending on the event, and my heart races, but eventually I get comfortable and do my thing.Ava Peace plans to marry within the next three yearsThe singer believes she has grown significantly since the early days of her career, particularly in her vocals, confidence and branding.“I’ve matured as an artist, voice-wise and in terms of branding. If I had fears back then, now I’m a bit more solid, but I’m still hungry for more success.”Vinka further encouraged upcoming artists not to allow negative comments from individuals on social media to define their worth or determine how they view themselves.At the start, I faced challenges from people on social media who abused me and those who overlooked me and went on to criticize me.To rising artists, even when you face those challenges, that doesn’t mean one person’s opinion is how everyone sees you.Some people make negative comments about others just to satisfy something within themselves.The post Vinka speaks: Depression, stage fright, and building a tough skin appeared first on MBU.