​​In October 2018, she received an honorary award from the e'Bosch Heritage Project of Stellenbosch; and, on 15 February 2019, her alma mater, Outeniqua High in George, honoured her in the same way. Both awards are for recognition of her outstanding contribution to the advancement and conservation of South African culture and heritage and for her leading role in numerous cultural and conservation organisations and on provincial and national statutory councils. 

Prof Burden is senior researcher and curator of cultural history at the SU Museum. In addition to managing exhibitions and research at the Museum, she is also the presenter of short courses for museum staff, municipal officials, members of conservation organisations and members of the public. Topics include heritage conservation, museum studies and architectural styles. The SU Museum is, in fact, the only museum in South Africa that provides training in museum studies in this way. Prof Burden is also a sought-after speaker who is asked to present lectures and talks right across South Africa. 

Prof Burden's contributions for which the awards were made further include serving on societies and boards, such as chairperson of the South African Society for Cultural History, chairperson of the Western Cape Provincial Geographical Names Committee, vice-president of the International Folksong Society, the Western Cape Cultural Commission, the Council of Heritage Western Cape and the South African Geographical Names Council.

The e'Bosch award was presented on 31 October 2018 on the occasion of the opening of the exhibition “100 Artefacts for 100 Years", researched and installed by Prof Burden. The Outeniqua High award was presented on 15 March 2019 at a special event at the school, which concluded with a tree planting ceremony. Prof Burden has previously been honoured with three other awards.