He began playing youth football in the local Valle del Cauca league, and would train with the youth sides of América de Cali, Millonarios and Deportivo Cali.

At age 17, Culma had a trial with Montpellier, but ultimately moved to Argentina where he signed with Independiente.

[2] In 2005, Brujas manager Carlos Restrepo signed Culma to play for the Costa Rican Primera División club.

[3] Culma played for the Colombia national under-20 football team, participating in the 2001 South American U-20 Championship.

[1] Culma's brother, Gustavo, is also a professional footballer who plays for Once Caldas.